Wax Moth vs Common Stiletto Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Wax Moth | Common Stiletto Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Galleria mellonella | Thereva nobilitata |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Pyralidae | Therevidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm wingspan | 8-12 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Heathland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Worldwide | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Wax Moth
A moth whose larvae feed on beeswax in bee hives, causing major damage to comb. Also famous in science as a model organism for testing antibiotics and studying insect immunity.
Did You Know?
Wax moth larvae can digest polyethylene plastic, offering potential for plastic waste degradation.
Common Stiletto Fly
A slender, densely hairy fly with a pointed abdomen and silvery-white body hairs. Adults bask on sunlit leaves and bare ground, making short rapid flights when approached.
Did You Know?
Stiletto fly larvae are important biological control agents, feeding on root-eating pest larvae in sandy soils.