Herina frondescentiae
This record describes Herina frondescentiae (species). Recorded family: Ulidiidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a very distinctive picture-winged fly. Its wings are patterned with wide dark bands. One of the smallest picture-winged flies, 3-3.5mm. Typically found in wet, rush-dominated habitats and brownfield sites. The larvae are belived to develop in wet rotting vegetation. Fairly frequent and widespread in Britain. https://www.flickr.com/photos/63075200@N07/albums/72157688831461420/
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Typically found in wet, rush-dominated habitats and brownfield sites.
Seasonal Activity
Summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae are belived to develop in wet rotting vegetation.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent and widespread in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Herina frondescentiae. 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 Herina frondescentiae (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Herina frondescentiae
What is Herina frondescentiae?
Herina frondescentiae is a species in the family Ulidiidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Herina frondescentiae found?
Habitat: Typically found in wet, rush-dominated habitats and brownfield sites.
When is Herina frondescentiae active?
Herina frondescentiae: seasonal activity - Summer..
What is the life cycle of a Herina frondescentiae?
The larvae are belived to develop in wet rotting vegetation.