Anasimyia lineata
This record describes Anasimyia lineata (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species is distinguished from all other Eristalini by its long snout which tapers to a point. Both sexes are rather dark, but the male tends to have triangular orange markings on the tergites, especially on tergite 2, whilst the female markings can be orange or grey. Lushly vegetated pools containing plants such as bulrush, iris and willowherbs. May to September peaking in June and July.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Lushly vegetated pools containing plants such as bulrush, iris and willowherbs.
Seasonal Activity
May to September peaking in June and July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but rather local in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Anasimyia lineata. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Diptera includes over 150,000 described species of flies, mosquitoes, and midges. Mosquitoes are the deadliest animal on Earth (CDC). Malaria alone causes ~249 million cases and over 608,000 deaths annually, mostly children under 5 (WHO). Vector-borne diseases account for over 17% of all infectious diseases, causing 700,000+ deaths per year.
Ecological role of the group
Despite their disease impact, flies are critical decomposers and pollinators. Hoverflies alone pollinate hundreds of crop and wildflower species. Flies are also the primary food source for many birds, bats, and fish. Forensic entomology relies heavily on fly species for crime scene analysis.
Economic and practical significance of the group
In the U.S., vector-borne disease cases tripled between 2004-2016, with over 640,000 cases reported in that period (CDC). Tickborne diseases doubled from 22,000 to 48,000 annual reports. Globally, mosquito-borne diseases cost billions in healthcare and lost productivity.
Recorded sources for this group: WHO, CDC, PNAS. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Anasimyia lineata (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Anasimyia lineata
What is Anasimyia lineata?
Anasimyia lineata is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Anasimyia lineata found?
Habitat: Lushly vegetated pools containing plants such as bulrush, iris and willowherbs.
When is Anasimyia lineata active?
Anasimyia lineata: seasonal activity - May to September peaking in June and July..