Anasimyia transfuga
This record describes Anasimyia transfuga (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wing length about 7 mm. This dark hoverfly has steeply inclined hooked markings, like a tick. It resembles other members of the family and expert help may be required to confirm identification. Widespread but local and quite infrequent in Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On tall emergent pond side vegetation.
Seasonal Activity
May to September peaking in July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but local and quite infrequent in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Anasimyia transfuga. 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 transfuga (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Anasimyia transfuga
What is Anasimyia transfuga?
Anasimyia transfuga is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Anasimyia transfuga?
about 7 mm. This dark hoverfly has steeply inclined hooked markings, like a tick. It resembles other members of the family and expert help may be required to confirm identification.
Where is Anasimyia transfuga found?
Habitat: On tall emergent pond side vegetation.
When is Anasimyia transfuga active?
Anasimyia transfuga: seasonal activity - May to September peaking in July..