Verrucarum Sandfly vs Common Fungus Gnat
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Verrucarum Sandfly | Common Fungus Gnat |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lutzomyia verrucarum | Bradysia impatiens |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Psychodidae | Mycetophilidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 2-4 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Carrion Feeders | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | Peru, Andean valleys of South America | Cosmopolitan |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Verrucarum Sandfly
A small sandfly found in the inter-Andean valleys of Peru, serving as the vector of Bartonella bacilliformis, which causes Carrion's disease (Oroya fever and verruga peruana). It is active at dusk and night at altitudes between 800 and 3,000 meters.
Did You Know?
Carrion's disease killed thousands of workers during construction of the Lima-La Oroya railway in the 1870s.
Common Fungus Gnat
A small, delicate dark fly with long legs and antennae that commonly infests houseplant soil. Adults are weak fliers that hover near potted plants and are attracted to light.
Did You Know?
Fungus gnats are one of the most common houseplant pests worldwide, with larvae damaging roots of seedlings.