Herina nigrina
This record describes Herina nigrina (species). Recorded family: Ulidiidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A relatively large picture-winged fly (to 6 mm) with a unique wing pattern comprised of a dark tip, and darkened outer crossvein and an L-shaped mark that occupies the costal cells but then extends at a right angle to encompass the inner crossvein. There is no substantial basal band below the costal cell in contrast to H. lugubris. Like most other Herina species, the head has silver stripes beside the eyes, and a reddish face and frontal stripe. Good photos showing wing pattern rerquired. Dry calcareous sites with sparse vegetation and brownfield sites (especially quarries). Often occurs alongside H. lugubris. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Dry calcareous sites with sparse vegetation and brownfield sites (especially quarries). Often occurs alongside H. lugubris.
Seasonal Activity
Summer
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent in southern England.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Herina nigrina. 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 nigrina (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Herina nigrina
What is Herina nigrina?
Herina nigrina is a species in the family Ulidiidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Herina nigrina found?
Habitat: Dry calcareous sites with sparse vegetation and brownfield sites (especially quarries). Often occurs alongside H. lugubris.
When is Herina nigrina active?
Herina nigrina: seasonal activity - Summer.