Hemyda vittata
This record describes Hemyda vittata (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This fly has a black thorax and a pale orange abdomen which has a black central band that is usually broken. The larvae in common with all tachinids are parasitoids of other invertebrates, in this case true bugs of the family pentatomidae. A rather uncommon fly which was first recorded in Britain in the 1950s. Its distribution here was restricted to woodland in a few counties in the south-east, though its range does seem to have expanded in recent years. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tachinidae
- Genus
- Hemyda
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Woodland and well wooded areas.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae in common with all tachinids are parasitoids of other invertebrates, in this case true bugs of the family pentatomidae.
Additional species information
Recorded status
A rather uncommon fly which was first recorded in Britain in the 1950s. Its distribution here was restricted to woodland in a few counties in the south-east, though its range does seem to have expanded in recent years.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Hemyda vittata. 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 Hemyda vittata
What is Hemyda vittata?
Hemyda vittata is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Hemyda vittata found?
Habitat: Woodland and well wooded areas.
When is Hemyda vittata active?
Hemyda vittata: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Hemyda vittata?
The larvae in common with all tachinids are parasitoids of other invertebrates, in this case true bugs of the family pentatomidae.