Helina impuncta
This record describes Helina impuncta (species). Recorded family: Muscidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
6.7-8.2mm. Grey/brown with fine stripes on the thorax and no patterning on the abdomen. It has red femora and tibia, with yellow-tinted wings and darkened cross-veins. It breeds on cow dung so most commonly encountered around cow pasture. Males most commonly seen in May to June but females can often be seen until November. Common and widespread in England and Wales.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It breeds on cow dung so most commonly encountered around cow pasture.
Seasonal Activity
Males most commonly seen in May to June but females can often be seen until November.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in England and Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Helina impuncta. 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 Helina impuncta (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Helina impuncta
What is Helina impuncta?
Helina impuncta is a species in the family Muscidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Helina impuncta found?
Habitat: It breeds on cow dung so most commonly encountered around cow pasture.
When is Helina impuncta active?
Helina impuncta: seasonal activity - Males most commonly seen in May to June but females can often be seen until November..