Conops flavipes
This record describes Conops flavipes (species). Recorded family: Conopidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 9 to 11 mm. Proboscis length 4.5 mm. A wasp mimic with a black abdomen that has narrow bands of yellow. Hind femora of this species have a prominent dark band around the middle. Larvae are internal parasites of bumblebees.
Wikipedia reference for Conops flavipes: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conops_flavipes.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A species of wet meadows.
Seasonal Activity
June to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae are internal parasites of bumblebees.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in southern Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Conops flavipes. 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 Conops flavipes (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Conops flavipes
What is Conops flavipes?
Conops flavipes is a species in the family Conopidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Conops flavipes?
9 to 11 mm. Proboscis length 4.5 mm. A wasp mimic with a black abdomen that has narrow bands of yellow. Hind femora of this species have a prominent dark band around the middle.
Where is Conops flavipes found?
Habitat: A species of wet meadows.
When is Conops flavipes active?
Conops flavipes: seasonal activity - June to August..
What is the life cycle of a Conops flavipes?
Larvae are internal parasites of bumblebees.