Subarctic Flesh Fly vs African Harvester Termite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Subarctic Flesh Fly | African Harvester Termite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sarcophaga nigriventris | Microhodotermes viator |
| Order | Diptera | Blattodea |
| Family | Sarcophagidae | Hodotermitidae |
| Size | 8-14 mm | 6-10 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Heathland |
| Diet | Carrion Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Scandinavia, northern Russia, subarctic Canada, Alaska | Western Cape, South Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Subarctic Flesh Fly
A medium-sized gray fly with black longitudinal stripes on the thorax and a checkered abdomen. Unlike most flies, females give birth to live larvae rather than laying eggs. Adults are found on carrion and dung.
Did You Know?
By giving birth to live larvae that are ready to feed immediately, this fly gives its offspring a head start in the short Arctic summer.
African Harvester Termite
A harvester termite found in the fynbos and semi-arid regions of the Western Cape in South Africa. Workers have pigmented eyes and forage on the surface for grass and plant material. Colonies build subterranean nests with extensive tunnel systems.
Did You Know?
This species creates 'heuweltjies' (small mounds) in the fynbos landscape that are visible in satellite imagery and may persist for thousands of years.