Striped Bromeliad Fly
Copestylum vittatum
This record describes Copestylum vittatum (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Distinctive among relatives in North America--note yellow face with black median stripe, striped abdomen, and two yellow spots on scutum .
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se. US ; SE US through mid-west and westward to Texas, Arizona, California, British Columbia
Seasonal Activity
April-August (NE US), February-November (southern US)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: vittatum = striped
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Copestylum vittatum. 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 Striped Bromeliad Fly (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Martin Hauser; Additional contributions by cotinis , john and jane balaban , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Striped Bromeliad Fly
What is Striped Bromeliad Fly?
Striped Bromeliad Fly (Copestylum vittatum) is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Striped Bromeliad Fly?
8-9 mm
How do you identify Striped Bromeliad Fly?
Distinctive among relatives in North America--note yellow face with black median stripe, striped abdomen, and two yellow spots on scutum .
Where is Striped Bromeliad Fly found?
Range: se. US ; SE US through mid-west and westward to Texas, Arizona, California, British Columbia
When is Striped Bromeliad Fly active?
Striped Bromeliad Fly: seasonal activity - April-August (NE US), February-November (southern US).