Globular Tachinid vs Banded Blackfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Globular Tachinid Banded Blackfly
Scientific Name Gymnosoma rotundatum Simulium ornatum
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Tachinidae Simuliidae
Size 6-8 mm 2-4 mm
Habitat Heathland Rivers & Streams
Diet Parasites Herbivores
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Globular Tachinid

A distinctive round-bodied parasitic fly colored bright orange-red with black markings. Parasitizes shieldbugs. One of the most easily recognized tachinid flies.

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Did You Know?

The unusually round, bright orange body makes this one of the most recognizable parasitic flies.

Banded Blackfly

A widespread European black fly species complex found in diverse stream types. Larvae filter-feed from silken pads attached to trailing vegetation and stones.

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Did You Know?

Recent DNA studies revealed that what was considered one species is actually a complex of several cryptic species.