Conops quadrifasciatus
This record describes Conops quadrifasciatus (species). Recorded family: Conopidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A long proboscis and a long pointed anal cell near the hind edge of the wing are features that characterise this family. Hind femora of this species are yellowish brown, and the female has a small yellowish pouch under the 5th abdominal segment. On umbellifers and composites such as Ragwort, especially in drier areas. Larvae are internal parasites of bumblebees.
Wikipedia reference for Conops quadrifasciatus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conops_quadrifasciatus.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On umbellifers and composites such as Ragwort, especially in drier areas.
Seasonal Activity
June to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae are internal parasites of bumblebees.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Local in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Conops quadrifasciatus. 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 quadrifasciatus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Conops quadrifasciatus
What is Conops quadrifasciatus?
Conops quadrifasciatus is a species in the family Conopidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Conops quadrifasciatus found?
Habitat: On umbellifers and composites such as Ragwort, especially in drier areas.
When is Conops quadrifasciatus active?
Conops quadrifasciatus: seasonal activity - June to September..
What is the life cycle of a Conops quadrifasciatus?
Larvae are internal parasites of bumblebees.