Superb Ant-hill Hoverfly vs Karoophasma biedouwense
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Superb Ant-hill Hoverfly | Karoophasma biedouwense |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xanthogramma pedissequum | Karoophasma biedouwense |
| Order | Diptera | Mantophasmatodea |
| Family | Syrphidae | Austrophasmatidae |
| Size | 10-14 mm | 15-20 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Heathland |
| Diet | Root Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Africa |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Endangered |
Superb Ant-hill Hoverfly
A striking yellow-and-black hoverfly that mimics a wasp. Larvae develop inside ant nests where they feed on root aphids tended by the ants. A declining species in parts of its range.
Did You Know?
Larvae live inside ant nests and feed on the root aphids that ants keep as 'livestock'.
Karoophasma biedouwense
A gladiator insect endemic to the Biedouw Valley in South Africa. It is nocturnal and hunts among low shrubs in semi-arid fynbos.
Did You Know?
Each heelwalker species tends to occupy a tiny geographic range, making them extremely vulnerable to habitat loss.