Chirosia grossicauda
This record describes Chirosia grossicauda (species). Recorded family: Anthomyiidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The larva of the fly Chirosia grossicauda causes galls to form on Bracken fronds. The tip of the pinnule (involving a few pinnules) rolls downwards and may discolour, inside a white maggot mines along the main vein. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Anthomyiidae
- Genus
- Chirosia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Wherever Bracken is present.
Seasonal Activity
August to October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Chirosia grossicauda. 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 Chirosia grossicauda (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Chirosia grossicauda
What is Chirosia grossicauda?
Chirosia grossicauda is a species in the family Anthomyiidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Chirosia grossicauda found?
Habitat: Wherever Bracken is present.
When is Chirosia grossicauda active?
Chirosia grossicauda: seasonal activity - August to October..