Tsetse Fly (Forest) vs Julia Skimmer
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tsetse Fly (Forest) | Julia Skimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Glossina palpalis | Orthetrum julia |
| Order | Diptera | Odonata |
| Family | Glossinidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 8-14 mm | 40-48 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Africa | Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Tsetse Fly (Forest)
A major vector of African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness). Unique among flies for giving live birth to a single large larva nourished internally with a milk-like substance.
Did You Know?
The tsetse fly nourishes its single developing larva with a milk gland — this is the closest any insect comes to mammalian lactation and pregnancy.
Julia Skimmer
A slender African dragonfly where mature males develop a striking black and white pattern. It is found throughout sub-Saharan Africa near flowing water.
Did You Know?
Males become jet black with contrasting white markings as they mature, unlike most blue pruinose Orthetrum.