Dasysyrphus venustus
This record describes Dasysyrphus venustus (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The yellow bars reach the margins of the abdomen with inflated inner ends, so appearing to curve upwards. It flies from April to September, peaking May and early June, and is most commonly seen in spring. This species is widespread in most of Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Favours woodland margins.
Seasonal Activity
It flies from April to September, peaking May and early June, and is most commonly seen in spring.
Additional species information
Recorded status
This species is widespread in most of Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Dasysyrphus venustus. 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 venustus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dasysyrphus venustus
What is Dasysyrphus venustus?
Dasysyrphus venustus is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Dasysyrphus venustus found?
Habitat: Favours woodland margins.
When is Dasysyrphus venustus active?
Dasysyrphus venustus: seasonal activity - It flies from April to September, peaking May and early June, and is most commonly seen in spring..