Lonchoptera bifurcata
This record describes Lonchoptera bifurcata (species). Recorded family: Lonchopteridae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Additional details | 3-4mm. |
| Body | Body colour variable, from pale yellow to dark brown. |
| Legs | Legs are pale. As with other species in the family, the wings are long and thin giving them their common name of 'Spear-winged Flies'. See ID guidance below for the specific features seen in this species. April to October but adults overwinter in Ivy and evergreen vegetation. |
Wikipedia reference for Lonchoptera bifurcata: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lonchoptera_bifurcata.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Platypezoidea
- Family
- Lonchopteridae (Pointed-winged Flies)
- Genus
- Lonchoptera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Damp grassland.
Seasonal Activity
April to October but adults overwinter in Ivy and evergreen vegetation.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Lonchoptera bifurcata. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lonchoptera bifurcata
What is Lonchoptera bifurcata?
Lonchoptera bifurcata is a species in the family Lonchopteridae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Lonchoptera bifurcata?
The front tibia with three upper bristles
Where is Lonchoptera bifurcata found?
Habitat: Damp grassland.
When is Lonchoptera bifurcata active?
Lonchoptera bifurcata: seasonal activity - April to October but adults overwinter in Ivy and evergreen vegetation..