Empis stercorea
This record describes Empis stercorea (species). Recorded family: Empididae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species is easily recognised by its pale brown body colour and the black stripe running along the length of its back. The black stripe continues into the orange head and thorax. Empis aemula is rarer but very similar. In this species the fore tibiae are somewhat darkened. Fairly common and widespread in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Empis stercorea: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empis_stercorea.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Lush grassy places.
Seasonal Activity
April to June.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly common and widespread in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Empis stercorea. 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 stercorea (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Empis stercorea
What is Empis stercorea?
Empis stercorea is a species in the family Empididae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Empis stercorea found?
Habitat: Lush grassy places.
When is Empis stercorea active?
Empis stercorea: seasonal activity - April to June..