Snow Crane Fly vs Broad Centurion Soldier Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Snow Crane Fly Broad Centurion Soldier Fly
Scientific Name Chionea valga Chloromyia formosa
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Limoniidae Stratiomyidae
Size 5-8 mm body length 7-10 mm
Habitat Caves Underground
Diet Fungus Feeders Detritivores
Regions Europe, Northern Asia Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Snow Crane Fly

A wingless crane fly adapted to cold environments, found walking on snow surfaces in winter. It resembles a long-legged spider and is active only at or below freezing temperatures.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the few insects active in midwinter, crawling across snow to find mates when most other insects are dormant.

Broad Centurion Soldier Fly

A beautiful metallic green soldier fly with a broad, flattened abdomen and coppery reflections. Males are more blue-green while females appear more coppery-bronze.

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Did You Know?

Males and females are so differently colored that they were originally described as separate species.