Epistrophe diaphana
This record describes Epistrophe diaphana (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is most frequently encountered in umbellifer-rich grasslands on calcareous soils.
Seasonal Activity
April to August peaking around June.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae feed on aphids, and have been reported on Chicory abroad.
Additional species information
Recorded status
A localised but increasing species of southern England.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Epistrophe diaphana. 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 Epistrophe diaphana (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Epistrophe diaphana
How big is Epistrophe diaphana?
7.25 to 9.75 mm. A banded Epistrophe with black antennae which narrows down the possible species, although E. grossulariae is similar. The body pattern resembles other Epistrophe and Syrphus species to some extent but the yellow parts are particularly pale and clean-looking, especially on the frons, face and scutellum. The side margins of the thoracic dorsum are also paler than similar species and the thoracic dorsum has two longitudinal pale stripes down the middle.
Where is Epistrophe diaphana found?
Habitat: It is most frequently encountered in umbellifer-rich grasslands on calcareous soils.
When is Epistrophe diaphana active?
Epistrophe diaphana: seasonal activity - April to August peaking around June..
What is the life cycle of a Epistrophe diaphana?
The larvae feed on aphids, and have been reported on Chicory abroad.