Lypha dubia
This record describes Lypha dubia (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Relatively small (4-7mm), this fly has an overall brassy look with a chequered abdomen. The front of the thorax usually has short white stripes. Woodland - often seen on tree trunks and foliage. One generation per year. The larvae parasitise Winter Moths and moths from the family Tortricidae . Fairly frequent and widespread in the southern half of Britain at least. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tachinidae
- Genus
- Lypha
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Woodland - often seen on tree trunks and foliage.
Seasonal Activity
April to June.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
One generation per year. The larvae parasitise Winter Moths and moths from the family
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent and widespread in the southern half of Britain at least.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Lypha dubia. 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 Lypha dubia (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Lypha dubia
What is Lypha dubia?
Lypha dubia is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Lypha dubia found?
Habitat: Woodland - often seen on tree trunks and foliage.
When is Lypha dubia active?
Lypha dubia: seasonal activity - April to June..
What is the life cycle of a Lypha dubia?
One generation per year. The larvae parasitise Winter Moths and moths from the family