Tapered Drone Fly
Eristalis pertinax
This record describes Eristalis pertinax (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Whilst similar to E. tenax , this species has a more tapering abdomen in the male and it also has pale front legs. The pair of orange markings on tergite 2 of the abdomen are nearly always present, but tend to be brighter in summer specimens. Found between March and November, with peaks in May and August. It is common and widespread throughout Britain.
Wikipedia reference for Eristalis pertinax: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eristalis_pertinax.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Hedgerows and woodland rides.
Seasonal Activity
Found between March and November, with peaks in May and August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Thought to have several broods.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is common and widespread throughout Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Eristalis pertinax. 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 Tapered Drone Fly (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Tapered Drone Fly
What is Tapered Drone Fly?
Tapered Drone Fly (Eristalis pertinax) is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Tapered Drone Fly found?
Habitat: Hedgerows and woodland rides.
When is Tapered Drone Fly active?
Tapered Drone Fly: seasonal activity - Found between March and November, with peaks in May and August..
What is the life cycle of a Tapered Drone Fly?
Thought to have several broods.