Meiosimyza decempunctata
This record describes Meiosimyza decempunctata (species). Recorded family: Lauxaniidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (4 to 4.5 mm.) orange species with the 10 wing spots giving it the scientific name. 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. Widespread in England and Wales though not particularly common.
Wikipedia reference for Meiosimyza decempunctata: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meiosimyza_decempunctata.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Lauxaniidae
- Genus
- Meiosimyza
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Hedgerows and well vegetated areas.
Seasonal Activity
April to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larva live on dead leaves.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England and Wales though not particularly common.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Meiosimyza decempunctata. 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 Meiosimyza decempunctata (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Meiosimyza decempunctata
What is Meiosimyza decempunctata?
Meiosimyza decempunctata is a species in the family Lauxaniidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Meiosimyza decempunctata found?
Habitat: Hedgerows and well vegetated areas.
When is Meiosimyza decempunctata active?
Meiosimyza decempunctata: seasonal activity - April to September..
What is the life cycle of a Meiosimyza decempunctata?
Larva live on dead leaves.