Azelia nebulosa
This record describes Azelia nebulosa (species). Recorded family: Muscidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small muscid with rounded spots on the abdomen, a pale patch on the hind thorax and a black scutellum. It has a distinct pre-apical bristle on the mid tibia but is lacking another bristle in the middle of the tibia. There are 7 UK Azelia species and microscopic examination is required to identify the species. Breeds on cow dung but can be found in Spring sunning on fences. Peak around May, but also in October and November. Fairly frequent and widespread in England and Wales, fewer records from Scotland.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Breeds on cow dung but can be found in Spring sunning on fences.
Seasonal Activity
Peak around May, but also in October and November.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent and widespread in England and Wales, fewer records from Scotland.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Azelia nebulosa. 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 Azelia nebulosa (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Azelia nebulosa
What is Azelia nebulosa?
Azelia nebulosa is a species in the family Muscidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Azelia nebulosa found?
Habitat: Breeds on cow dung but can be found in Spring sunning on fences.
When is Azelia nebulosa active?
Azelia nebulosa: seasonal activity - Peak around May, but also in October and November..