Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat vs Soldier Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Bioluminescent Fungus Gnat Soldier Fly
Scientific Name Keroplatus testaceus Odontomyia tigrina
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Keroplatidae Stratiomyidae
Size 8-12 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Woodlands Ponds & Lakes
Diet Fungus Feeders Pollen Feeders
Regions Europe Europe
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.

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Did You Know?

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

Soldier Fly

A brightly colored soldier fly with aquatic larvae that filter-feed in ponds.

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Did You Know?

Larvae float at the surface and breathe through a rosette of hydrophobic tail hairs.