Epistrophe eligans
This record describes Epistrophe eligans (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species can be quite variable in the extent of the yellow striping on its abdomen, some specimens, particularly males, being nearly all black; however the overall pattern is usually similar. Hot, sunny woodland edges and hedgerows, favouring Blackthorn and Hawthorn. Mainly a Spring species with most observations between April and June, peaking in May. It is widespread throughout most of Britain though more scarce in the north.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Hot, sunny woodland edges and hedgerows, favouring Blackthorn and Hawthorn.
Seasonal Activity
Mainly a Spring species with most observations between April and June, peaking in May.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is widespread throughout most of Britain though more scarce in the north.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Epistrophe eligans. 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 eligans (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Epistrophe eligans
What is Epistrophe eligans?
Epistrophe eligans is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Epistrophe eligans found?
Habitat: Hot, sunny woodland edges and hedgerows, favouring Blackthorn and Hawthorn.
When is Epistrophe eligans active?
Epistrophe eligans: seasonal activity - Mainly a Spring species with most observations between April and June, peaking in May..