Dufouria chalybeata
This record describes Dufouria chalybeata (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Body length about 6 mm. A rather small, very bristly, and often slightly shiny black Tachinid. This species cannot be identified from photographs - detailed examination necessary. The larvae of Dufouria chalybeata are parasitoids of tortoise beetles ( Cassida spp.). Widespread in the southern half of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tachinidae
- Genus
- Dufouria
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Hedgerows and meadows.
Seasonal Activity
Late spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae of
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Dufouria chalybeata. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dufouria chalybeata
What is Dufouria chalybeata?
Dufouria chalybeata is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Dufouria chalybeata?
about 6 mm. A rather small, very bristly, and often slightly shiny black Tachinid.
Where is Dufouria chalybeata found?
Habitat: Hedgerows and meadows.
When is Dufouria chalybeata active?
Dufouria chalybeata: seasonal activity - Late spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Dufouria chalybeata?
The larvae of