Copromyza neglecta
This record describes Copromyza neglecta (species). Recorded family: Sphaeroceridae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
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 microhabitats such as excrement and carrion. Has also been collected from mouse runs, muskrat nests, soil traps, and under rocks.
Geographic Range
Widespread Nearctic species (AK-NT-LB south to NC-NB-south CA) State/Province Records:
Seasonal Activity
In Pennsylvania, this species is most common in spring. Collected as early as March on snow.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Copromyza neglecta. 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 neglecta (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Joel Kits; Additional contributions by Bbarnd
Frequently Asked Questions About Copromyza neglecta
How big is Copromyza neglecta?
3 to 4 mm
Where is Copromyza neglecta found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Associated with microhabitats such as excrement and carrion. Has also been collected from mouse runs, muskrat nests, soil traps, and under rocks. |
| Range | Widespread Nearctic species (AK-NT-LB south to NC-NB-south CA) State/Province Records: |
When is Copromyza neglecta active?
Copromyza neglecta: seasonal activity - In Pennsylvania, this species is most common in spring. Collected as early as March on snow..