Copromyza equina
This record describes Copromyza equina (species). Recorded family: Sphaeroceridae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3.5 to 5mm. The lesser dung fly Copromyza equina is one of several similar species in this family. Detailed examination is required. All year round, but peaking spring to autumn. It appears to be widespread in Britain but true status is not easy to determine due to the need for detailed examination in order to identify to species level. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Sphaeroceroidea
- Family
- Sphaeroceridae (Lesser Dung Flies)
- Subfamily
- Copromyzinae
- Genus
- Copromyza
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with animal dung.
Seasonal Activity
All year round, but peaking spring to autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It appears to be widespread in Britain but true status is not easy to determine due to the need for detailed examination in order to identify to species level.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Copromyza equina. 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 Copromyza equina (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Copromyza equina
What is Copromyza equina?
Copromyza equina is a species in the family Sphaeroceridae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Copromyza equina?
3.5 to 5mm. The lesser dung fly Copromyza equina is one of several similar species in this family. Detailed examination is required.
Where is Copromyza equina found?
Habitat: Associated with animal dung.
When is Copromyza equina active?
Copromyza equina: seasonal activity - All year round, but peaking spring to autumn..