Turkey Gnat vs Arctic Crane Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Turkey Gnat | Arctic Crane Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Simulium meridionale | Tipula arctica |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Simuliidae | Tipulidae |
| Size | 2-4 mm | 15-25 mm body length |
| Habitat | Farmland | Tundra & Arctic |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | North America | Arctic Scandinavia, northern Russia, Siberia, Arctic Canada |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Turkey Gnat
A black fly notorious for swarming livestock in the southern United States. Larvae attach to rocks in swift streams using silken pads and posterior hooks.
Did You Know?
Massive swarms historically caused turkey and livestock deaths in the Mississippi Valley through blood loss and allergic reactions.
Arctic Crane Fly
A large, long-legged fly with narrow wings and a slender body. Its legs break off easily when seized by predators. Larvae are leathery-skinned grubs living in wet tundra soil where they feed on roots.
Did You Know?
Despite their mosquito-like appearance, crane flies are completely harmless and cannot bite.