Dasysyrphus albostriatus
This record describes Dasysyrphus albostriatus (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The downward facing yellow bars help to identify this species, sometimes fused into inverted 'V's. Two grey stripes on the thorax are also a distinguishing feature. Often found on warm spring days in April and May, though can be found until November. Widespread and quite common throughout Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is a woodland edge species.
Seasonal Activity
Often found on warm spring days in April and May, though can be found until November.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and quite common throughout Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Dasysyrphus albostriatus. 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 Dasysyrphus albostriatus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dasysyrphus albostriatus
What is Dasysyrphus albostriatus?
Dasysyrphus albostriatus is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Dasysyrphus albostriatus found?
Habitat: It is a woodland edge species.
When is Dasysyrphus albostriatus active?
Dasysyrphus albostriatus: seasonal activity - Often found on warm spring days in April and May, though can be found until November..