Little Snipe Fly
Chrysopilus asiliformis
This record describes Chrysopilus asiliformis (species). Recorded family: Rhagionidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A relatively small and delicate, grey-dusted snipe fly with rather striking green eyes. It can be found in a variety of habitats including scrub, woodland edge, wetlands and even gardens where it is usually encountered on foliage. The larvae are presumed to develop in soil. This is a widespread species that is most frequent in southern Britain, becoming much rarer in the north. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Chrysopilus asiliformis: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysopilus_asiliformis.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Rhagionidae
- Genus
- Chrysopilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It can be found in a variety of habitats including scrub, woodland edge, wetlands and even gardens where it is usually encountered on foliage.
Seasonal Activity
Summer and autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae are presumed to develop in soil.
Additional species information
Recorded status
This is a widespread species that is most frequent in southern Britain, becoming much rarer in the north.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Chrysopilus asiliformis. 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 Little Snipe Fly (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Little Snipe Fly
What is Little Snipe Fly?
Little Snipe Fly (Chrysopilus asiliformis) is a species in the family Rhagionidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Little Snipe Fly found?
Habitat: It can be found in a variety of habitats including scrub, woodland edge, wetlands and even gardens where it is usually encountered on foliage.
When is Little Snipe Fly active?
Little Snipe Fly: seasonal activity - Summer and autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Little Snipe Fly?
The larvae are presumed to develop in soil.