Mydaea setifemur
This record describes Mydaea setifemur (species). Recorded family: with large yellow flaps at the base of its wings.. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Quite a grey looking member of the family with large yellow flaps at the base of its wings. It is very similar in appearance to Mydaea humeralis and the two cannot be reliably separated without detailed examination. Hedgerows and well wooded areas, flower meadows. Larvae feed on fungi, whilst the adults are pollen feeders. Scattered records from England and Wales. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Genus
- Mydaea
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Hedgerows and well wooded areas, flower meadows.
Seasonal Activity
May to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae feed on fungi, whilst the adults are pollen feeders.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Scattered records from England and Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Mydaea setifemur. 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 Mydaea setifemur (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Mydaea setifemur
What is Mydaea setifemur?
Mydaea setifemur is a species in the family with large yellow flaps at the base of its wings., within the order Diptera.
Where is Mydaea setifemur found?
Habitat: Hedgerows and well wooded areas, flower meadows.
When is Mydaea setifemur active?
Mydaea setifemur: seasonal activity - May to October..
What is the life cycle of a Mydaea setifemur?
Larvae feed on fungi, whilst the adults are pollen feeders.