Fannia scalaris
This record describes Fannia scalaris (species). Recorded family: Fanniidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species has been implicated in several kinds of myiasis.
Wikipedia reference for Fannia scalaris: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fannia_scalaris.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Generalist, reared from fungi, wasp nests, bird nests, land snails, dung, manure, "cesspools", a groundhog burrow, garbage, and rotting vegetables. Attracted to light and carrion. Often seen around excrement and outhouses, hence the name "latrine fly".
Geographic Range
Cosmopolitan. Widespread throughout North America.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Fannia scalaris. 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 Fannia scalaris (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd
Frequently Asked Questions About Fannia scalaris
What is Fannia scalaris?
Fannia scalaris is a species in the family Fanniidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Fannia scalaris?
5.5-7.5 mm
Where is Fannia scalaris found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Generalist, reared from fungi, wasp nests, bird nests, land snails, dung, manure, cesspools, a groundhog burrow, garbage, and rotting vegetables. Attracted to light and carrion. Often seen around excrement and outhouses, hence the name latrine fly. |
| Range | Cosmopolitan. Widespread throughout North America. |