Tropical Silverfish vs Common Moth Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tropical Silverfish | Common Moth Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Nicoletia phytophila | Psychoda alternata |
| Order | Zygentoma | Diptera |
| Family | Nicoletiidae | Psychodidae |
| Size | 8-12 mm | 2-4 mm |
| Habitat | Caves | Woodlands |
| Diet | Detritivores | Detritivores |
| Regions | Central America, Caribbean | Cosmopolitan |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Tropical Silverfish
A soil-dwelling silverfish found in tropical regions and occasionally in caves. It has a slender white body with very long cerci.
Did You Know?
It has been recorded from caves in Belize despite being primarily a soil species.
Common Moth Fly
A tiny grayish moth fly with broad, hairy wings giving it a distinctly moth-like appearance. Its wings are held flat over the body at rest, and it runs in short hops when disturbed.
Did You Know?
Moth flies are important components of sewage treatment trickling filter beds where their larvae help break down waste.