Liriomyza sonchi
This record describes Liriomyza sonchi (species). Recorded family: Agromyzidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The larvae of the fly Liriomyza sonchi form large upper surface blotch mines on the leaves of sow-thistle species. Secondary feeding corridors are often present. Scattered frass can be seen in the mine. Several larvae may feed together in the mine. See the National Agromyzidae Recording Scheme webpage for this species for further details of puparium and adult insect. Liriomyza obliqua / Liriomyza pascuum / Liriomyza puella / Liriomyza scorzonerae / Liriomyza taraxaci . ref.: Warrington, B.P. (2023). Liriomyza sonchi . Accessed at https://agromyzidae.co.uk/species/agromyzidae/phytomyzinae/liriomyza/liriomyza-sonchi/ on 13/12/2023) Adult: Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Leafmine: Please provide a back-lit photograph of the leafmine and state the host plant. Host plants: Sow-thistles are the most common plants used but the mines have been found a range of others. Click on the ' further details ' link in the 'Description' section above. Then click on the Phenology tab which will provide phenology details for both adult and larval stages.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Agromyzidae
- Genus
- Liriomyza
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Host plants:
Seasonal Activity
Click on the '
Additional species information
Recorded status
In Britain the species is classed as Nationally Scarce B.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Liriomyza sonchi. 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 Liriomyza sonchi (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Liriomyza sonchi
What is Liriomyza sonchi?
Liriomyza sonchi is a species in the family Agromyzidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Liriomyza sonchi?
and identifying characters.
Where is Liriomyza sonchi found?
Habitat: Host plants:
When is Liriomyza sonchi active?
Liriomyza sonchi: seasonal activity - Click on the '.