Cheilosia variabilis
This record describes Cheilosia variabilis (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species has an elongate, rather parallel sided grey abdomen and black thorax. It is relatively large, and has dark wings. It lives in wooded areas, and lush woodland edges. April to September, peaking in May and early June Breeds on Figwort, where the larvae eat the root nodules. Common in Britain though fewer records from the north.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It lives in wooded areas, and lush woodland edges.
Seasonal Activity
April to September, peaking in May and early June
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Breeds on Figwort, where the larvae eat the root nodules.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common in Britain though fewer records from the north.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Cheilosia variabilis. 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 variabilis (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheilosia variabilis
What is Cheilosia variabilis?
Cheilosia variabilis is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Cheilosia variabilis found?
Habitat: It lives in wooded areas, and lush woodland edges.
When is Cheilosia variabilis active?
Cheilosia variabilis: seasonal activity - April to September, peaking in May and early June.
What is the life cycle of a Cheilosia variabilis?
Breeds on Figwort, where the larvae eat the root nodules.