Argyra diaphana
This record describes Argyra diaphana (species). Recorded family: Dolichopodidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Males have some white on the abdomen and yellow spots on the side of the abdomen. Argyra diaphana can be distinguished from other Argyra species by the fact that the scutellum is hairy and the thorax is not silvery. The frons and face are blackish. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Various habitats including grassland and scrub. Widespread and fairly frequent in much of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Dolichopodidae
- Genus
- Argyra
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats including grassland and scrub.
Seasonal Activity
Peak time is May to August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in much of Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Argyra diaphana. 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 Argyra diaphana (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Argyra diaphana
What is Argyra diaphana?
Argyra diaphana is a species in the family Dolichopodidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Argyra diaphana found?
Habitat: Various habitats including grassland and scrub.
When is Argyra diaphana active?
Argyra diaphana: seasonal activity - Peak time is May to August..