Green Gem
Microchrysa flavicornis
This record describes Microchrysa flavicornis (species). Recorded family: Stratiomyidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3 to 5 mm. This is a small soldier fly usually has a brilliant green abdomen and thorax with mainly yellow antennae. M. polita - abdomen darker (blackish green) and all-black antennae. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Fairly frequent and widespread throughout Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Family
- Stratiomyidae (Soldier flies)
- Subfamily
- Sarginae
- Genus
- Microchrysa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Well vegetated areas.
Seasonal Activity
June to August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent and widespread throughout Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Microchrysa flavicornis. 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 Green Gem (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Gem
What is Green Gem?
Green Gem (Microchrysa flavicornis) is a species in the family Stratiomyidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Green Gem?
3 to 5 mm. This is a small soldier fly usually has a brilliant green abdomen
Where is Green Gem found?
Habitat: Well vegetated areas.
When is Green Gem active?
Green Gem: seasonal activity - June to August..