Leucozona laternaria
This record describes Leucozona laternaria (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The scutellum of this species is black with just the tip yellow and the front and mid legs are extensively black on the tibiae and tarsi. Lowland habitats with lush vegetation, especially woodland edges where umbellifers are present. The larvae feed on aphids, usually on Hogweed and other umbellifers. Fairly common throughout Britain, though less frequent in eastern areas.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Lowland habitats with lush vegetation, especially woodland edges where umbellifers are present.
Seasonal Activity
May to September peaking in July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae feed on aphids, usually on Hogweed and other umbellifers.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly common throughout Britain, though less frequent in eastern areas.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Leucozona laternaria. 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 Leucozona laternaria (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Leucozona laternaria
What is Leucozona laternaria?
Leucozona laternaria is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Leucozona laternaria found?
Habitat: Lowland habitats with lush vegetation, especially woodland edges where umbellifers are present.
When is Leucozona laternaria active?
Leucozona laternaria: seasonal activity - May to September peaking in July..
What is the life cycle of a Leucozona laternaria?
The larvae feed on aphids, usually on Hogweed and other umbellifers.