Melanogaster hirtella
This record describes Melanogaster hirtella (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wing length 5 to 6 mm. Fairly small and blackish in colour including the antennae. The wings are clear or only slightly shaded. The females often have a shining abdomen. Rich marshes and watersides with emergent vegetation. May to mid August peaking late May and June.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Rich marshes and watersides with emergent vegetation.
Seasonal Activity
May to mid August peaking late May and June.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae are aquatic.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Melanogaster hirtella. 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 Melanogaster hirtella (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Melanogaster hirtella
What is Melanogaster hirtella?
Melanogaster hirtella is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Melanogaster hirtella?
5 to 6 mm. Fairly small and blackish in colour including the antennae. The wings are clear or only slightly shaded. The females often have a shining abdomen.
Where is Melanogaster hirtella found?
Habitat: Rich marshes and watersides with emergent vegetation.
When is Melanogaster hirtella active?
Melanogaster hirtella: seasonal activity - May to mid August peaking late May and June..
What is the life cycle of a Melanogaster hirtella?
The larvae are aquatic.