Chrysotus blepharosceles
This record describes Chrysotus blepharosceles (species). Recorded family: Dolichopodidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
2.5 to 3mm. This species is sexually dimorphic. Chrysotus blepharosceles is very similar to other members of the Dolichopodidae and detailed examination is necessary. It may only be possible to identify males with confidence. Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify the species (a photograph alone is not normally sufficient because key features are too small or hidden) and/or there are one or more similar species and confusion is common. It may only be possible to identify males with confidence. Frequenting hedgerows and trees in open, well-lit areas. Main period is between May and September. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Dolichopodidae
- Genus
- Chrysotus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Frequenting hedgerows and trees in open, well-lit areas.
Seasonal Activity
Main period is between May and September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Scattered throughout England & Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Chrysotus blepharosceles. 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 Chrysotus blepharosceles (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Chrysotus blepharosceles
What is Chrysotus blepharosceles?
Chrysotus blepharosceles is a species in the family Dolichopodidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Chrysotus blepharosceles found?
Habitat: Frequenting hedgerows and trees in open, well-lit areas.
When is Chrysotus blepharosceles active?
Chrysotus blepharosceles: seasonal activity - Main period is between May and September..