Dexiosoma caninum
This record describes Dexiosoma caninum (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a tachinid fly - a parisitoid which lays its eggs on other species. It is a long-legged, bristly fly. The abdomen appears banded and varies from greyish to buff and brown. It is often seen in woods in Britain sitting on Bracken. The larvae of this fly are parasitic on the larvae of the Common Cockchafer. It has previously been observed mainly in the south of England.
Wikipedia reference for Dexiosoma caninum: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dexiosoma_caninum.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tachinidae
- Genus
- Dexiosoma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is often seen in woods in Britain sitting on Bracken.
Seasonal Activity
In summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae of this fly are parasitic on the larvae of the Common Cockchafer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It has previously been observed mainly in the south of England.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Dexiosoma caninum. 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 Dexiosoma caninum (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dexiosoma caninum
What is Dexiosoma caninum?
Dexiosoma caninum is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Dexiosoma caninum found?
Habitat: It is often seen in woods in Britain sitting on Bracken.
When is Dexiosoma caninum active?
Dexiosoma caninum: seasonal activity - In summer..
What is the life cycle of a Dexiosoma caninum?
The larvae of this fly are parasitic on the larvae of the Common Cockchafer.