Farmyard Midge vs South African Robber Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Farmyard Midge | South African Robber Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Culicoides nubeculosus | Alcimus tristrigatus |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Ceratopogonidae | Asilidae |
| Size | 2 mm | 18-26 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Heathland |
| Diet | Dung Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Southern Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Farmyard Midge
A tiny biting midge that breeds in mud contaminated by dung or sewage. Adults suck blood from horses and cattle. Can transmit bluetongue virus and African horse sickness.
Did You Know?
Despite being only 2mm long, it is the primary vector of bluetongue virus, a devastating livestock disease.
South African Robber Fly
A large, hairy robber fly endemic to southern Africa's fynbos and savanna. It perches conspicuously on shrubs while scanning for prey.
Did You Know?
Southern Africa harbors one of the richest robber fly faunas in the world.