Cryptomeigenia demylus
This record describes Cryptomeigenia demylus (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The form of the ovipositor is distinctive. Also, there are only two presutural acrostichal bristles; most species of the genus have three.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Oestroidea
- Family
- Tachinidae (Parasitic Flies)
- Subfamily
- Exoristinae
- Tribe
- Blondeliini
- Genus
- Cryptomeigenia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Eastern North America
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Cryptomeigenia demylus. 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 Cryptomeigenia demylus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by John F. Carr
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptomeigenia demylus
What is Cryptomeigenia demylus?
Cryptomeigenia demylus is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Cryptomeigenia demylus?
The form of the ovipositor is distinctive. Also, there are only two presutural acrostichal bristles; most species of the genus have three.
Where is Cryptomeigenia demylus found?
Range: Eastern North America