Leucopis argentata
This record describes Leucopis argentata (species). Recorded family: Chamaemyiidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Larvae: Most Leucopis larvae have posterior spiracles on a diverging pair of stalks. That is the typical Leucopis condition. But Leucopis argentata is one of very few where they are not on such stalks (S.Gaimari, pers. comm.).
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Lauxanioidea
- Family
- Chamaemyiidae
- Genus
- Leucopis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Larvae feed on Hyalopterus pruni (Aphididae) on the leaves of reed ( Phragmites communis ).
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Leucopis argentata. 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 Leucopis argentata (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Claude Pilon
Frequently Asked Questions About Leucopis argentata
What is Leucopis argentata?
Leucopis argentata is a species in the family Chamaemyiidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Leucopis argentata?
Adult: 1,9 – 2,5 mm
How do you identify Leucopis argentata?
Larvae: Most Leucopis larvae have posterior spiracles on a diverging pair of stalks. That is the typical Leucopis condition. But Leucopis argentata is one of very few where they are not on such stalks (S.Gaimari, pers. comm.).
What does Leucopis argentata eat?
The diet of the Leucopis argentata includes Larvae feed on Hyalopterus pruni (Aphididae) on the leaves of reed ( Phragmites communis )..