Swede Midge vs South American Robber Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Swede Midge | South American Robber Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Contarinia nasturtii | Microstylum magnum |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Cecidomyiidae | Asilidae |
| Size | 1.5-2 mm | 30-40 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Grasslands |
| Diet | Gall Makers | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, North America | South America, Central America |
| 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.
South American Robber Fly
A large, elongate robber fly from tropical regions with a slender abdomen and long spiny legs. It hunts from exposed perches and can catch large prey relative to its body size.
Did You Know?
Some tropical Asilidae species are among the largest predatory flies in the world, rivaling small dragonflies in wingspan.