Meiosimyza platycephala
This record describes Meiosimyza platycephala (species). Recorded family: Lauxaniidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Can only be identified by detailed examination. Widely distributed in the British Isles.
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
Well wooded areas.
Seasonal Activity
May to August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widely distributed in the British Isles.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Meiosimyza platycephala. 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 platycephala (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Meiosimyza platycephala
What is Meiosimyza platycephala?
Meiosimyza platycephala is a species in the family Lauxaniidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Meiosimyza platycephala?
3.5 to 4 mm.
Where is Meiosimyza platycephala found?
Habitat: Well wooded areas.
When is Meiosimyza platycephala active?
Meiosimyza platycephala: seasonal activity - May to August..