Morellia simplex
This record describes Morellia simplex (species). Recorded family: Muscidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Around 9-10mm, a dark grey/black fly with a bold but short white stripe at the front of the thorax. The dark grey abdomen typically has a pale tip. The Morellia genus can be recognised by this generally dark colour, with vein m gently curving towards the wing margin and the middle tibia without a strong posteroventral seta, though posterodorsal and posterior setae usually well developed. Morellia simplex is probably the commonest of the genus and can be recognised by having a parallel-sided prosternum with lateral bristles. Easily confused with Polietes domitor , but they are easily separated by the wing venation. It breeds in cattle dung so is usually found around cattle pasture. Peaks in April/May and in August/September. It is sometimes referred to as a Sweat Fly and it can be a particular nuisance to cattle.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It breeds in cattle dung so is usually found around cattle pasture.
Seasonal Activity
Peaks in April/May and in August/September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It is sometimes referred to as a Sweat Fly and it can be a particular nuisance to cattle.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and quite common in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Morellia simplex. 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 simplex (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Morellia simplex
What is Morellia simplex?
Morellia simplex is a species in the family Muscidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Morellia simplex found?
Habitat: It breeds in cattle dung so is usually found around cattle pasture.
When is Morellia simplex active?
Morellia simplex: seasonal activity - Peaks in April/May and in August/September..
What is the life cycle of a Morellia simplex?
It is sometimes referred to as a Sweat Fly and it can be a particular nuisance to cattle.