Gonia picea
This record describes Gonia picea (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A large (10mm), dumpy tachinid fly and typically hairy. The dark abdomen has pale stripes across each segment. Larva parasitise lepidoptera caterpillars particularly those of the Antler Moth.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tachinidae
- Genus
- Gonia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Dry to moderately damp meadows.
Seasonal Activity
March to June.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larva parasitise lepidoptera caterpillars particularly those of the Antler Moth.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Mainly found in the south of Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Gonia picea. 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 Gonia picea (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Gonia picea
What is Gonia picea?
Gonia picea is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Gonia picea found?
Habitat: Dry to moderately damp meadows.
When is Gonia picea active?
Gonia picea: seasonal activity - March to June..
What is the life cycle of a Gonia picea?
Larva parasitise lepidoptera caterpillars particularly those of the Antler Moth.