Hamatabanus carolinensis
This record describes Hamatabanus carolinensis (species). Recorded family: Tabanidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Additional details | Basal portion of third antennal segment with a prominent, forward projecting tooth reaching nearly to base of annulate portion. |
| Eyes | Eyes pilose. Brownish species. Stump vein on R4 absent. |
| Eyes | Eyes in life green with a narrow, diagonal purple band. Sublateral spots on the abdomen present, conspicuous, light gray. Frons about 5 times as high as wide basally, parallel-sided or slightly narrowed above. |
| Wings | Wings hyaline There are very few photographic records of this species. |
Classification
Habitat and Range
Seasonal Activity
Brimley notes from Piedmont of NC in April-May, mountains in May-June.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Hamatabanus carolinensis. 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 Hamatabanus carolinensis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tony; Additional contributions by cotinis , v belov , Arturo Santos
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamatabanus carolinensis
What is Hamatabanus carolinensis?
Hamatabanus carolinensis is a species in the family Tabanidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Hamatabanus carolinensis?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Additional details | Basal portion of third antennal segment with a prominent, forward projecting tooth reaching nearly to base of annulate portion. |
| Eyes | Eyes pilose. Brownish species. Stump vein on R4 absent. |
| Eyes | Eyes in life green with a narrow, diagonal purple band. Sublateral spots on the abdomen present, conspicuous, light gray. Frons about 5 times as high as wide basally, parallel-sided or slightly narrowed above. |
| Wings | Wings hyaline |
When is Hamatabanus carolinensis active?
Hamatabanus carolinensis: seasonal activity - Brimley notes from Piedmont of NC in April-May, mountains in May-June..