Hybos culiciformis
This record describes Hybos culiciformis (species). Recorded family: Hybotidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
There are three British species of Hybos , all are similar though H. femoratus has red legs (except the rear pair which are black). No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Hybos culiciformis: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hybos_culiciformis.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Hedgerows and woodland edge.
Seasonal Activity
June to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on small insects.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widely distributed in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Hybos culiciformis. 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 Hybos culiciformis (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hybos culiciformis
What is Hybos culiciformis?
Hybos culiciformis is a species in the family Hybotidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Hybos culiciformis?
3.5 to 5.5 mm.
Where is Hybos culiciformis found?
Habitat: Hedgerows and woodland edge.
When is Hybos culiciformis active?
Hybos culiciformis: seasonal activity - June to September..
What is the life cycle of a Hybos culiciformis?
Feeds on small insects.