Hydrotaea similis
This record describes Hydrotaea similis (species). Recorded family: Muscidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of the larger Hydrotaea species at up to 10mm in length. Generally black with some pale grey dusting on the abdomen and pale stripes at the top of the thorax. Males have ornamentation on the underside of the front femora including a short, sharp spine at the apical end. Vein m bends slightly towards the wing. Hydrotaea dentipes and H. palaestrica are also large and have vein m with a slight bend. On H. dentipes , the ventral setae on the mid femora are very long - 3x the depth of the femur. The few available records show a wide distribution in England.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often in hilly or well wooded areas.
Seasonal Activity
Peak is in May and June.
Additional species information
Recorded status
The few available records show a wide distribution in England.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Hydrotaea similis. 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 Hydrotaea similis (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydrotaea similis
What is Hydrotaea similis?
Hydrotaea similis is a species in the family Muscidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Hydrotaea similis found?
Habitat: Often in hilly or well wooded areas.
When is Hydrotaea similis active?
Hydrotaea similis: seasonal activity - Peak is in May and June..