Discomyza incurva
This record describes Discomyza incurva (species). Recorded family: Ephydridae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 2.5-3mm. A strongly arched, compact thorax gives the fly a hunchbacked appearance in lateral view. The femora and tibiae are primarily dark, but the middle and hind tarsi are orange to yellowish. Most frequently encountered in grasslands, meadows, and areas where terrestrial snails are abundant. Breeds in dead snails.
Wikipedia reference for Discomyza incurva: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Discomyza_incurva.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Ephydroidea
- Family
- Ephydridae (Shore Flies)
- Subfamily
- Discomyzinae
- Genus
- Discomyza
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Most frequently encountered in grasslands, meadows, and areas where terrestrial snails are abundant. Breeds in dead snails.
Seasonal Activity
Summer-Autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Uncommon.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Discomyza incurva. 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 Discomyza incurva (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Discomyza incurva
What is Discomyza incurva?
Discomyza incurva is a species in the family Ephydridae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Discomyza incurva?
2.5-3mm. A strongly arched, compact thorax gives the fly a hunchbacked appearance in lateral view. The femora and tibiae are primarily dark, but the middle and hind tarsi are orange to yellowish.
Where is Discomyza incurva found?
Habitat: Most frequently encountered in grasslands, meadows, and areas where terrestrial snails are abundant. Breeds in dead snails.
When is Discomyza incurva active?
Discomyza incurva: seasonal activity - Summer-Autumn..