Cheilosia soror
This record describes Cheilosia soror (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of our three fungus-feeding Cheilosia (characterised by bare eyes, long wings, partially pale legs and fused antennal pits), and readily separable from the other two by the orange-red 3rd antennal segment. Confusion is more likely with the smaller C. pagana , but in top view, the facial knob of soror is broad and hemispherical (pointed in pagana ). Although it may be possible to confirm records supported by good photographs showing the distinguishing features, it may be necessary to examine the specimen in detail. Adults are usually encountered on umbellifer flowers. May be encountered from June into early autumn. Widespread and locally frequent in chalk and limestone districts of southern Britain especially in calcareous grassland, scrub and woodland rides. Records extend thinly into northern England. It seems to be increasing.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Adults are usually encountered on umbellifer flowers.
Seasonal Activity
May be encountered from June into early autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
A fungus feeder.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and locally frequent in chalk and limestone districts of southern Britain especially in calcareous grassland, scrub and woodland rides. Records extend thinly into northern England. It seems to be increasing.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Cheilosia soror. 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 soror (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheilosia soror
What is Cheilosia soror?
Cheilosia soror is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Cheilosia soror found?
Habitat: Adults are usually encountered on umbellifer flowers.
When is Cheilosia soror active?
Cheilosia soror: seasonal activity - May be encountered from June into early autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Cheilosia soror?
A fungus feeder.