Dolichopus brevipennis
This record describes Dolichopus brevipennis (species). Recorded family: Dolichopodidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of a small number of species with postocular cilia dark, femora pale, and antennae entirely black.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Empidoidea
- Family
- Dolichopodidae (Longlegged Flies)
- Subfamily
- Dolichopodinae
- Genus
- Dolichopus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Northern North America; Europe, Asia
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Dolichopus brevipennis. 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 Dolichopus brevipennis (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by John F. Carr
Frequently Asked Questions About Dolichopus brevipennis
What is Dolichopus brevipennis?
Dolichopus brevipennis is a species in the family Dolichopodidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Dolichopus brevipennis?
One of a small number of species with postocular cilia dark, femora pale, and antennae entirely black.
Where is Dolichopus brevipennis found?
Range: Northern North America; Europe, Asia