Dolichopus gratus
This record describes Dolichopus gratus (species). Recorded family: Dolichopodidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of a few Eastern species with femora, postocular hairs, and hairs of squama all black. Hind tibia black with upper edge yellow at base. Costa of male strongly swollen at tip of R1.
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
Northeastern USA and adjacent Canada, south to Georgia in mountains
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Dolichopus gratus. 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 gratus (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by John F. Carr
Frequently Asked Questions About Dolichopus gratus
What is Dolichopus gratus?
Dolichopus gratus is a species in the family Dolichopodidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Dolichopus gratus?
One of a few Eastern species with femora, postocular hairs, and hairs of squama all black. Hind tibia black with upper edge yellow at base. Costa of male strongly swollen at tip of R1.
Where is Dolichopus gratus found?
Range: Northeastern USA and adjacent Canada, south to Georgia in mountains