Yam Hawk Moth vs Alpine Soldierfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Yam Hawk Moth Alpine Soldierfly
Scientific Name Theretra oldenlandiae Oxycera morrisii
Order Lepidoptera Diptera
Family Sphingidae Stratiomyidae
Size 50-65 mm 5-7 mm body length
Habitat Underground Mountains
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia, Australia British Isles, Alps, Northern Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Yam Hawk Moth

A widespread tropical hawk moth with olive-brown forewings and contrasting dark and light lateral body stripes. Its larvae feed on a wide variety of plants including yams and grape vines.

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Did You Know?

This species is one of the most polyphagous hawk moths, with larvae recorded feeding on plants from more than a dozen different families.

Alpine Soldierfly

A small, brightly patterned soldierfly found near mountain springs and seepages. Its larvae develop in calcareous spring water at high elevations.

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Did You Know?

Its larvae encrust themselves with calcium carbonate from the mineral-rich spring water.