Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat vs Rothschild's Achias

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat Rothschild's Achias
Scientific Name Keroplatus testaceus Achias rothschildi
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Keroplatidae Platystomatidae
Size 8-12 mm 15-18 mm
Habitat Woodlands Forests
Diet Fungus Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions Europe Papua New Guinea
Conservation Near Threatened Data Deficient

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.

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Did You Know?

Larvae glow in the dark, creating eerie blue-green patches on bracket fungi in dark forests.

Rothschild's Achias

A remarkable Papua New Guinean fly where males have enormously elongated eye stalks. Males use their extended eyes to size up rivals. Has the largest head capsule of any known insect.

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Did You Know?

Has the largest head capsule relative to body size of any insect, with eye stalks wider than its body.