Eristalis horticola
This record describes Eristalis horticola (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wing length 8.5 to 11.5 mm. A particularly bright species. It has a shorter and broader abdomen than E. pertinax or E. tenax and has a darkened area across the wing. Well vegetated areas with plenty of bushes or trees. Widespread but never common and scarcer further north.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Well vegetated areas with plenty of bushes or trees.
Seasonal Activity
April to October peaking in July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but never common and scarcer further north.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Eristalis horticola. 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 horticola (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Eristalis horticola
What is Eristalis horticola?
Eristalis horticola is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Eristalis horticola?
8.5 to 11.5 mm. A particularly bright species. It has a shorter and broader abdomen than
Where is Eristalis horticola found?
Habitat: Well vegetated areas with plenty of bushes or trees.
When is Eristalis horticola active?
Eristalis horticola: seasonal activity - April to October peaking in July..