Hydrotaea armipes
This record describes Hydrotaea armipes (species). Recorded family: Muscidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
There are other very similar species and detailed examination is necessary. There are other very similar species and detailed examination is necessary. Mostly recorded between April and September. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Mostly recorded between April and September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Hydrotaea armipes. 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 Hydrotaea armipes
What is Hydrotaea armipes?
Hydrotaea armipes is a species in the family Muscidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Hydrotaea armipes found?
Habitat: Various habitats.
When is Hydrotaea armipes active?
Hydrotaea armipes: seasonal activity - Mostly recorded between April and September..