Hydromya dorsalis
This record describes Hydromya dorsalis (species). Recorded family: Sciomyzidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6-7mm. A reddish-brown species with a grey thorax and five spots on each wing, four along vein M1+2 and one at the base of the s-shaped cross-vein. Unless identified by an expert, good quality photos or examination of a specimen are required. Marshy places with rushes and sedges, especially if prone to seasonal flooding. Steven Falk's Hydromya dorsalis Flickr page. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Sciomyzidae
- Genus
- Hydromya
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Marshy places with rushes and sedges, especially if prone to seasonal flooding.
Seasonal Activity
All year.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae feed on aquatic snails.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and common across the UK.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Hydromya dorsalis. 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 Hydromya dorsalis (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydromya dorsalis
What is Hydromya dorsalis?
Hydromya dorsalis is a species in the family Sciomyzidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Hydromya dorsalis?
6-7mm. A reddish-brown species with a grey thorax and five spots on each wing, four along vein M1+2 and one at the base of the s-shaped cross-vein.
Where is Hydromya dorsalis found?
Habitat: Marshy places with rushes and sedges, especially if prone to seasonal flooding.
When is Hydromya dorsalis active?
Hydromya dorsalis: seasonal activity - All year..
What is the life cycle of a Hydromya dorsalis?
The larvae feed on aquatic snails.