Empis scutellata
This record describes Empis scutellata (species). Recorded family: Empididae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (6 or 7 mm) orange bodied dagger fly. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Various habitats including meadows and well vegetated areas. Late April to late July peaking late May. Mainly recorded from the southern half of Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats including meadows and well vegetated areas.
Seasonal Activity
Late April to late July peaking late May.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Mainly recorded from the southern half of Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Empis scutellata. 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 Empis scutellata (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Empis scutellata
What is Empis scutellata?
Empis scutellata is a species in the family Empididae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Empis scutellata found?
Habitat: Various habitats including meadows and well vegetated areas.
When is Empis scutellata active?
Empis scutellata: seasonal activity - Late April to late July peaking late May..