Miltogramma punctata
This record describes Miltogramma punctata (species). Recorded family: Sarcophagidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A medium-sized (body length 5.5 to 9.5 mm), heavily-dusted and solidly-built Sarcophagid. The eyes are unusually large, and the antennae inserted quite low on the face. 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. Can be found feeding on flowers such as Yarrow, Ragwort and Daisies. The larvae are found in the underground nests of bees and wasps where they steal their food. Though widespread across England and Wales, it is rather local and most commonly found where there is light soil, such as coastal dunes and heathland. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Miltogramma punctata: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miltogramma_punctata.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Sarcophagidae
- Genus
- Miltogramma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Can be found feeding on flowers such as Yarrow, Ragwort and Daisies.
Seasonal Activity
The adults fly from May to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae are found in the underground nests of bees and wasps where they steal their food.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Though widespread across England and Wales, it is rather local and most commonly found where there is light soil, such as coastal dunes and heathland.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Miltogramma punctata. 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 Miltogramma punctata (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Miltogramma punctata
What is Miltogramma punctata?
Miltogramma punctata is a species in the family Sarcophagidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Miltogramma punctata?
5.5 to 9.5 mm), heavily-dusted and solidly-built Sarcophagid. The eyes are unusually large, and the antennae inserted quite low on the face.
Where is Miltogramma punctata found?
Habitat: Can be found feeding on flowers such as Yarrow, Ragwort and Daisies.
When is Miltogramma punctata active?
Miltogramma punctata: seasonal activity - The adults fly from May to August..
What is the life cycle of a Miltogramma punctata?
The larvae are found in the underground nests of bees and wasps where they steal their food.