Chamaemyia aridella
This record describes Chamaemyia aridella (species). Recorded family: Chamaemyiidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
2-3mm. Chamaemyiidae are nearly all small and grey flies. Chamaemyia aridella is all grey but with yellow tibia. The abdomen usually lacks spots or stripes. See the ID checklist below for a list of the key identifying features. There are 12 species in the genus and most generally similar. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Chamaemyiidae
- Genus
- Chamaemyia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Dry locations.
Seasonal Activity
June - July
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly common and widespread
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Chamaemyia aridella. 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 Chamaemyia aridella
What is Chamaemyia aridella?
Chamaemyia aridella is a species in the family Chamaemyiidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Chamaemyia aridella found?
Habitat: Dry locations.
When is Chamaemyia aridella active?
Chamaemyia aridella: seasonal activity - June - July.