Globular Tachinid vs Polynesian Tiger Mosquito

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Globular Tachinid Polynesian Tiger Mosquito
Scientific Name Gymnosoma rotundatum Aedes polynesiensis
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Tachinidae Culicidae
Size 6-8 mm 3-5 mm
Habitat Heathland Woodlands
Diet Parasites Blood Feeders
Regions Europe South Pacific islands, Polynesia, Melanesia
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.

Polynesian Tiger Mosquito

A dark mosquito with white markings found across the South Pacific islands. It is an important vector of lymphatic filariasis (Wuchereria bancrofti) and dengue in the Pacific. It breeds in natural containers like coconut shells, crab holes, and tree holes.

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Did You Know?

Biological control using the mosquito Toxorhynchites amboinensis was attempted in the Pacific, as it preys on Aedes larvae.