Cheilosia illustrata
This record describes Cheilosia illustrata (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A furry bumblebee mimic with a dark wing cloud. Body is usually pale haired with a black band across the centre of the thorax, and another across tergite 3. It is typically seen settled with its wings closed tightly over its back. Hedgerows and woodland edge, usually on umbelifer flowers of Hogweed and Angelica. Larvae tunnel the roots of large Hogweed plants in autumn.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Hedgerows and woodland edge, usually on umbelifer flowers of Hogweed and Angelica.
Seasonal Activity
April to September, peaking in July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae tunnel the roots of large Hogweed plants in autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Very common throughout Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Cheilosia illustrata. 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 Cheilosia illustrata (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheilosia illustrata
What is Cheilosia illustrata?
Cheilosia illustrata is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Cheilosia illustrata found?
Habitat: Hedgerows and woodland edge, usually on umbelifer flowers of Hogweed and Angelica.
When is Cheilosia illustrata active?
Cheilosia illustrata: seasonal activity - April to September, peaking in July..
What is the life cycle of a Cheilosia illustrata?
Larvae tunnel the roots of large Hogweed plants in autumn.