Eristalis abusiva
This record describes Eristalis abusiva (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species is very similar to E. arbustorum , sharing the variation in colour and pattern on the abdomen. It can be distinguished by a close look at the arista (the very thin projection from its antennae), which is virtually hairless. Also the mid tibia is entirely pale whereas the other similar species have a dark tip to their mid tibia. Larvae have been reported from the mud at the edge of a pond. It is widespread in the UK and tends to be more common at coastal areas. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Marshland and coastal areas.
Seasonal Activity
March to October peaking in July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae have been reported from the mud at the edge of a pond.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is widespread in the UK and tends to be more common at coastal areas.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Eristalis abusiva. 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 Eristalis abusiva (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Eristalis abusiva
What is Eristalis abusiva?
Eristalis abusiva is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Eristalis abusiva found?
Habitat: Marshland and coastal areas.
When is Eristalis abusiva active?
Eristalis abusiva: seasonal activity - March to October peaking in July..
What is the life cycle of a Eristalis abusiva?
Larvae have been reported from the mud at the edge of a pond.