Dolichopus ungulatus
This record describes Dolichopus ungulatus (species). Recorded family: Dolichopodidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A typical and very common Dolichopid with a metallic green abdomen. See the ID checklist below for the key characteristics. Damp habitats, wet grassland, woodland edge, scrub and hedgerows.
Wikipedia reference for Dolichopus ungulatus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dolichopus_ungulatus.
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
Damp habitats, wet grassland, woodland edge, scrub and hedgerows.
Seasonal Activity
May to July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England and Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Dolichopus ungulatus. 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 ungulatus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dolichopus ungulatus
What is Dolichopus ungulatus?
Dolichopus ungulatus is a species in the family Dolichopodidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Dolichopus ungulatus found?
Habitat: Damp habitats, wet grassland, woodland edge, scrub and hedgerows.
When is Dolichopus ungulatus active?
Dolichopus ungulatus: seasonal activity - May to July..