Swede Midge vs Sheep Ked
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Swede Midge | Sheep Ked |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Contarinia nasturtii | Melophagus ovinus |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Cecidomyiidae | Hippoboscidae |
| Size | 1.5-2 mm | 4-7 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Farmland |
| Diet | Gall Makers | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, North America | Cosmopolitan - worldwide where sheep are raised |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Swede Midge
A minute yellowish-brown gall midge that attacks brassica crops by distorting growing points. Its tiny larvae feed inside developing buds, causing characteristic twisted and swollen growth.
Did You Know?
It was first detected in North America in 2000 and has since become a major emerging pest of brassica crops.
Sheep Ked
A completely wingless, tick-like blood-sucking fly that lives permanently in sheep wool. Its flattened body and strong claws allow it to cling firmly to wool fibers.
Did You Know?
Despite being called a ked or tick, it is actually a true fly that has completely lost its wings through evolution.