Microdon cothurnatus
This record describes Microdon cothurnatus (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
Habitat and Range
Seasonal Activity
Late May-late July .
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Host ant species include Camponotus novaeboracensis , C. pennsylvanicus , C. ?vicinus , Formica accreta , F. adamsi whymperi , F. aserva , F. neoclara , F. obscuripes , F. obscuriventris , F. podzolica , and F. ravida .
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Microdon cothurnatus. 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 Microdon cothurnatus (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ben Coulter
Frequently Asked Questions About Microdon cothurnatus
How big is Microdon cothurnatus?
8.2-12.1 mm
When is Microdon cothurnatus active?
Microdon cothurnatus: seasonal activity - Late May-late July ..
What is the life cycle of a Microdon cothurnatus?
Host ant species include Camponotus novaeboracensis , C. pennsylvanicus , C. ?vicinus , Formica accreta , F. adamsi whymperi , F. aserva , F. neoclara , F. obscuripes , F. obscuriventris , F. podzolica , and F. ravida .