Tinkerbell Fairyfly vs Picture-Winged Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tinkerbell Fairyfly | Picture-Winged Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tinkerbella nana | Delphinia picta |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Mymaridae | Ulidiidae |
| Size | 0.25 mm | 5-8 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Parasitoids | Herbivores |
| Regions | Central America | North America |
| Conservation | Data Deficient | Least Concern |
Tinkerbell Fairyfly
One of the smallest insects ever described, named after Peter Pans Tinker Bell. Discovered in Costa Rica in 2013. Measures only 0.25 mm in length.
Did You Know?
Named after the fairy Tinkerbell, this wasp is so tiny it can stand on the tip of a human hair — it was described in 2013 from specimens collected using specialized micro-traps.
Picture-Winged Fly
A small fly with beautifully patterned wings that it waves in display like tiny semaphore flags. The wing patterns may serve in species recognition and courtship.
Did You Know?
When walking, it continuously waves its patterned wings in a mesmerizing display, resembling a tiny insect conductor leading an orchestra.