Anthrax argyropygus
This record describes Anthrax argyropygus (species). Recorded family: Bombyliidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small dark Anthrax , with narrow wings. Kits et al. note in their key:
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Asiloidea
- Family
- Bombyliidae (Bee Flies)
- Subfamily
- Anthracinae
- Tribe
- Anthracini
- Genus
- Anthrax
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
widespread in United States into Mexico, also Cuba
Seasonal Activity
summer
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Specific epithet, argyropygus , from Greek argyro silver; plus pyga , the rump .
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Anthrax argyropygus. 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 Anthrax argyropygus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Joel Kits; Additional contributions by cotinis
Frequently Asked Questions About Anthrax argyropygus
What is Anthrax argyropygus?
Anthrax argyropygus is a species in the family Bombyliidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Anthrax argyropygus?
7-8 mm ; 9 mm long 22 mm wingspan ( measured specimen )
How do you identify Anthrax argyropygus?
A small dark Anthrax , with narrow wings. Kits et al. note in their key:
Where is Anthrax argyropygus found?
Range: widespread in United States into Mexico, also Cuba
When is Anthrax argyropygus active?
Anthrax argyropygus: seasonal activity - summer.