New Fly Species: A Tribute to Marvel

During this past year, CSIRO scientists have identified 165 new discoveries. 

Australia’s national science research agency, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, said insect species have been given scientific names – some of which are tributes to comic book characters. 

CSIRO entomologist Dr Bryan Lessard (left), who himself goes by the superhero name 'Bry the Fly Guy' on social media, maintained CSIRO are interested in identifying new insect species that might be useful pollinators, nutrient recyclers or the next food source to support the agricultural sector. 

The five flies that have association with Marvel heavyweights are:

The Deadpool fly is Humorolethalis sergius. It sounds like lethal humour and is derived from the Latin words “humorosus”, meaning wet or moist, and “lethalis” meaning dead. It’s an assassin with markings on its back that resembles Deadpool's mask. 

The Black Widow fly is Daptolestes feminategus, meaning woman wearing leather. 

The Thor fly is Daptolestes bronteflavus, which is derived from Latin like most scientific names – and translates to "blond thunder".

The Loki fly is Daptolestes illusiolautus, meaning elegant deception. 

And the Stan Lee fly is Daptolestes leei and shares his characteristic sunglasses and white moustache. 

Lessard said only a quarter of Australian insects are known to science – adding that the more species are named, the better we can understand their super powers. 

"Without a scientific name, these species are invisible to science", he reiterated. 

CSIRO bee and wasp expert Dr Juanita Rodriguez (left) said naming new species has a fun side but is also vital science for our everyday lives – understanding differences between species can help save their lives and our own.