Campiglossa malaris
This record describes Campiglossa malaris (species). Recorded family: Tephritidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Campiglossa malaris is a small fruit fly with brown and white mottled wings. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and examination of the specimen may be necessary. It is associated with Ragworts, mainly Senecio erucifolius, but also Senecio jacobaea and may be found in dryish grassy places where these species occur. Quite widespread in England and Wales, but not particularly common. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tephritidae
- Genus
- Campiglossa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is associated with Ragworts, mainly Senecio erucifolius, but also Senecio jacobaea and may be found in dryish grassy places where these species occur.
Seasonal Activity
May to August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Quite widespread in England and Wales, but not particularly common.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Campiglossa malaris. 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 Campiglossa malaris
What is Campiglossa malaris?
Campiglossa malaris is a species in the family Tephritidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Campiglossa malaris found?
Habitat: It is associated with Ragworts, mainly Senecio erucifolius, but also Senecio jacobaea and may be found in dryish grassy places where these species occur.
When is Campiglossa malaris active?
Campiglossa malaris: seasonal activity - May to August..