Chrysops aestuans
This record describes Chrysops aestuans (species). Recorded family: Tabanidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Markings on thorax grayish yellow instead of bright yellow. Apical wing spot reduced to a narrow crescent along the wing margin. Useful key for Canadian Chrysops
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
British Columbia to Nova Scotia, south to California, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Chrysops aestuans. 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 Chrysops aestuans (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Tony-2 , Vox Sciurorum
Frequently Asked Questions About Chrysops aestuans
What is Chrysops aestuans?
Chrysops aestuans is a species in the family Tabanidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Chrysops aestuans?
8-10 mm
How do you identify Chrysops aestuans?
Markings on thorax grayish yellow instead of bright yellow. Apical wing spot reduced to a narrow crescent along the wing margin. Useful key for Canadian Chrysops
Where is Chrysops aestuans found?
Range: British Columbia to Nova Scotia, south to California, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania