Linnaemya picta
This record describes Linnaemya picta (species). Recorded family: members so detailed examination is needed.. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
10-12mm. A large tachinid fly which is a relatively recent addition to the UK fauna. Black and grey patches on the abdomen become orange at the sides. Very similar in appearance to other family members so detailed examination is needed. https://tachinidae.org.uk/blog/linnaemya-picta-tessellans-rossia-confusion-features/ Must be keyed out under magnification, and preferably confirmed by an expert. Various habitats including woodland and other well vegetated areas. Status is difficult to determine due to lack of records – the species was only identified in Britain fairly recently, although some older records have also subsequently been re-identified as this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Genus
- Linnaemya
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats including woodland and other well vegetated areas.
Seasonal Activity
May to October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Status is difficult to determine due to lack of records – the species was only identified in Britain fairly recently, although some older records have also subsequently been re-identified as this species.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Linnaemya picta. 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 Linnaemya picta (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Linnaemya picta
What is Linnaemya picta?
Linnaemya picta is a species in the family members so detailed examination is needed., within the order Diptera.
Where is Linnaemya picta found?
Habitat: Various habitats including woodland and other well vegetated areas.
When is Linnaemya picta active?
Linnaemya picta: seasonal activity - May to October..