Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat vs Greater Bee Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat | Greater Bee Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Keroplatus testaceus | Bombylius canescens |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Keroplatidae | Bombyliidae |
| Size | 8-12 mm | 10-14 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Deserts & Drylands |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Least Concern |
Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat
A remarkable fungus gnat whose larvae create bioluminescent webs on bracket fungi. The blue-green glow attracts prey insects. One of the few bioluminescent insects outside fireflies.
Did You Know?
Larvae glow in the dark, creating eerie blue-green patches on bracket fungi in dark forests.
Greater Bee Fly
A pale greyish bee fly with a long proboscis and clear wings. It parasitizes ground-nesting bees in arid Mediterranean habitats.
Did You Know?
It can hover motionless in the air for extended periods while probing flowers with its rigid proboscis.