Chrysops noctifer
This record describes Chrysops noctifer (species). Recorded family: Tabanidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
the only western [Canadian] deer fly having a dilute apical spot isolated from the wing crossband. Some specimens of the eastern species C. sordidus resemble C. noctifer but have a more dilute and restricted apical spot and the pigmentation in cell bm less extensive than in cell br. The larva is most similar to that of C. ater .
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
western montane (southern Yukon Territory through British Columbia and western Alberta to California and Colorado)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Chrysops noctifer Osten Sacken 1877
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Chrysops noctifer. 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 noctifer (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Keith Bayless; Additional contributions by Vox Sciurorum , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Chrysops noctifer
What is Chrysops noctifer?
Chrysops noctifer is a species in the family Tabanidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Chrysops noctifer?
the only western [Canadian] deer fly having a dilute apical spot isolated from the wing crossband. Some specimens of the eastern species C. sordidus resemble C. noctifer but have a more dilute and restricted apical spot and the pigmentation in cell bm less extensive than in cell br. The larva is most similar to that of C. ater .
Where is Chrysops noctifer found?
Range: western montane (southern Yukon Territory through British Columbia and western Alberta to California and Colorado)