Callomyia speciosa
This record describes Callomyia speciosa (species). Recorded family: Platypezidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The long thin abdomen is somewhat variable but consists of amber and black with silvery white bands. The thorax is also usually black with silvery markings. Various habitats, especially woodland and around decaying wood. The flat bodied larvae are fungal feeders found on fungi rotting wood and beneath bark. Most records come from the southern half of Britain where it is uncommon. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Callomyia speciosa: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Callomyia_speciosa.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Platypezidae
- Genus
- Callomyia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats, especially woodland and around decaying wood.
Seasonal Activity
June to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The flat bodied larvae are fungal feeders found on fungi rotting wood and beneath bark.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Most records come from the southern half of Britain where it is uncommon.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Callomyia speciosa. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Callomyia speciosa
What is Callomyia speciosa?
Callomyia speciosa is a species in the family Platypezidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Callomyia speciosa found?
Habitat: Various habitats, especially woodland and around decaying wood.
When is Callomyia speciosa active?
Callomyia speciosa: seasonal activity - June to September..
What is the life cycle of a Callomyia speciosa?
The flat bodied larvae are fungal feeders found on fungi rotting wood and beneath bark.