Dolichopus discifer
This record describes Dolichopus discifer (species). Recorded family: Dolichopodidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
5-6.5mm. Typical of the genus with a green, metallic body and long legs. It is a predator of aphids, springtails and similar small invertebrates. Males have enlarged front tarsi used in courtship to woo a female. Identification requires close examination of the leg bristles - see ID Guidance below. A good general photo plus either photos or notes showing how it was identified. Well vegetated habitats near to damp areas. Females lay eggs in damp soil. The larvae are predatory. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Dolichopodidae
- Genus
- Dolichopus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Well vegetated habitats near to damp areas.
Seasonal Activity
May - August
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Females lay eggs in damp soil. The larvae are predatory.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly common and widespread.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Dolichopus discifer. 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 discifer (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dolichopus discifer
What is Dolichopus discifer?
Dolichopus discifer is a species in the family Dolichopodidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Dolichopus discifer found?
Habitat: Well vegetated habitats near to damp areas.
When is Dolichopus discifer active?
Dolichopus discifer: seasonal activity - May - August.
What is the life cycle of a Dolichopus discifer?
Females lay eggs in damp soil. The larvae are predatory.