Chrysops geminatus
This record describes Chrysops geminatus (species). Recorded family: Tabanidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Chrysops geminatus is one of the smallest species of the genus and is also distinctive by the apical spot of the wing being moderately widened apically and almost separated from the crossband and usually by an inverted V-shaped black marking on an otherwise yellow second abdominal tergite. The species is most similar to C. lateralis Wiedemann.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
"Larvae have been found abundantly in moss growing in spring-fed drainage beds and in some common, less distinctive habitats."
Geographic Range
Eastern USA, southern Ontario and Quebec
Seasonal Activity
Short flight period, mainly in July
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Chrysops geminatus. 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 geminatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Vox Sciurorum
Frequently Asked Questions About Chrysops geminatus
What is Chrysops geminatus?
Chrysops geminatus is a species in the family Tabanidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Chrysops geminatus?
Chrysops geminatus is one of the smallest species of the genus and is also distinctive by the apical spot of the wing being moderately widened apically and almost separated from the crossband and usually by an inverted V-shaped black marking on an otherwise yellow second abdominal tergite. The species is most similar to C. lateralis Wiedemann.
Where is Chrysops geminatus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Larvae have been found abundantly in moss growing in spring-fed drainage beds and in some common, less distinctive habitats. |
| Range | Eastern USA, southern Ontario and Quebec |
When is Chrysops geminatus active?
Chrysops geminatus: seasonal activity - Short flight period, mainly in July.