Short-horned Black Legionnaire
Beris fuscipes
This record describes Beris fuscipes (species). Recorded family: Stratiomyidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Quite similar to some other Beris species, but can be identified with care. This species has very short antennae. For more details see the 'Further Information' link below. Good close up photographs required, and detailed examination may be necessary. Steven Falk's Flickr page for Beris fuscipes No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Family
- Stratiomyidae (Soldier flies)
- Subfamily
- Beridinae
- Genus
- Beris
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Damp woodland.
Seasonal Activity
Adults peak in June and July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but quite scarce
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Beris fuscipes. 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 Short-horned Black Legionnaire (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Short-horned Black Legionnaire
What is Short-horned Black Legionnaire?
Short-horned Black Legionnaire (Beris fuscipes) is a species in the family Stratiomyidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Short-horned Black Legionnaire found?
Habitat: Damp woodland.
When is Short-horned Black Legionnaire active?
Short-horned Black Legionnaire: seasonal activity - Adults peak in June and July..