Chrysotoxum verralli
This record describes Chrysotoxum verralli (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This hoverfly is a wasp mimic, and very wasp-like in appearance. The genus is easy to recognise because it has long antennae that project forward. There are several other similar Chrysotoxum species which require careful examination of the black bar patterns to separate. A grassland species often occurring near trees and on waste ground. June to October, peaking in July and early August Most records are from south-east England reaching as far as the Midlands. Often regarded as scarce except in a few parts of its range.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A grassland species often occurring near trees and on waste ground.
Seasonal Activity
June to October, peaking in July and early August
Additional species information
Recorded status
Most records are from south-east England reaching as far as the Midlands. Often regarded as scarce except in a few parts of its range.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Chrysotoxum verralli. 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 Chrysotoxum verralli (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Chrysotoxum verralli
What is Chrysotoxum verralli?
Chrysotoxum verralli is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Chrysotoxum verralli found?
Habitat: A grassland species often occurring near trees and on waste ground.
When is Chrysotoxum verralli active?
Chrysotoxum verralli: seasonal activity - June to October, peaking in July and early August.