Meligramma trianguliferum
This record describes Meligramma trianguliferum (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
As the name suggest, the markings on the abdomen are rather triangular. It is a narrow-bodied species with a yellowish scutellum. The species has a preference for quite well wooded areas and hedgerows, and a liking for spring flowering shrubs such as Hawthorn and Crab Apple.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
The species has a preference for quite well wooded areas and hedgerows, and a liking for spring flowering shrubs such as Hawthorn and Crab Apple.
Seasonal Activity
April to September peaking in May.
Additional species information
Recorded status
The species is scarce in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Meligramma trianguliferum. 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 Meligramma trianguliferum (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Meligramma trianguliferum
What is Meligramma trianguliferum?
Meligramma trianguliferum is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Meligramma trianguliferum found?
Habitat: The species has a preference for quite well wooded areas and hedgerows, and a liking for spring flowering shrubs such as Hawthorn and Crab Apple.
When is Meligramma trianguliferum active?
Meligramma trianguliferum: seasonal activity - April to September peaking in May..