Morellia hortorum
This record describes Morellia hortorum (species). Recorded family: Muscidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 7.5 to 9 mm. Prosternum with strongly convex sides (narrowing at the base) and lacking any bristles on the edges. Hind tibia with a prominent row of anteroventral bristles. Middle and hind tibiae more or less straight. Male with dense hairs on the underside of the front tibia. 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. Various habitats, especially where cow dung can be found. Widespread and fairly common in Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats, especially where cow dung can be found.
Seasonal Activity
May to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Breeds in cow dung.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly common in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Morellia hortorum. 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 Morellia hortorum (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Morellia hortorum
What is Morellia hortorum?
Morellia hortorum is a species in the family Muscidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Morellia hortorum?
7.5 to 9 mm. Prosternum with strongly convex sides (narrowing at the base) and lacking any bristles on the edges. Hind tibia with a prominent row of anteroventral bristles. Middle and hind tibiae more or less straight. Male with dense hairs on the underside of the front tibia.
Where is Morellia hortorum found?
Habitat: Various habitats, especially where cow dung can be found.
When is Morellia hortorum active?
Morellia hortorum: seasonal activity - May to August..
What is the life cycle of a Morellia hortorum?
Breeds in cow dung.