Dioxyna bidentis
This record describes Dioxyna bidentis (species). Recorded family: Tephritidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wing-length 3.2-3.7mm. Head in profile with prominent lip above mouth edge. Apical scutellar bristles either very reduced or absent, <0.25 length of basal bristles. Wing pigmentation characteristic. Detailed phots of key features required. Feeds on on Asteraceae, larvae develop in the flower heads. https://www.flickr.com/photos/63075200@N07/albums/72177720318811986/ No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tephritidae
- Genus
- Dioxyna
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on on Asteraceae, larvae develop in the flower heads.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Local, widespread.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Dioxyna bidentis. 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 Dioxyna bidentis (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dioxyna bidentis
What is Dioxyna bidentis?
Dioxyna bidentis is a species in the family Tephritidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Dioxyna bidentis?
3.2-3.7mm. Head in profile with prominent lip above mouth edge. Apical scutellar bristles either very reduced or absent, <0.25 length of basal bristles. Wing pigmentation characteristic.
What is the life cycle of a Dioxyna bidentis?
Feeds on on Asteraceae, larvae develop in the flower heads.