Helina sexmaculata
This record describes Helina sexmaculata (species). Recorded family: Muscidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Most Helina species are very difficult to identify from a photograph alone, though this species is perhaps the exception to the rule. It is a brown/grey colour with brown spots on both the thorax and on the abdomen. It has a distinctive pair of brown spots on the scutellum. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Mostly April to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae are found in soil.
Additional species information
Recorded status
British status not known.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Helina sexmaculata. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Helina sexmaculata
What is Helina sexmaculata?
Helina sexmaculata is a species in the family Muscidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Helina sexmaculata found?
Habitat: Various habitats.
When is Helina sexmaculata active?
Helina sexmaculata: seasonal activity - Mostly April to August..
What is the life cycle of a Helina sexmaculata?
Larvae are found in soil.