Neoascia tenur
This record describes Neoascia tenur (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wing length 3 to 5 mm. This tiny species is similar to N. geniculata but in the male the third antennal segment is relatively narrow, and about one and a half times as long as broad. The female of this species has less waisted lateral margins to tergite two than in N. geniculata. The male has a yellow band on the abdomen on tergite three, whilst the female may be all black or have various spots and bars on tergites two and three. Marshes and fens, especially by the edges of standing water. Widespread and fairly common in Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Marshes and fens, especially by the edges of standing water.
Seasonal Activity
April to November peaking in July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly common in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Neoascia tenur. 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 Neoascia tenur (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Neoascia tenur
What is Neoascia tenur?
Neoascia tenur is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Neoascia tenur?
3 to 5 mm. This tiny species is similar to N. geniculata but in the male the third antennal segment is relatively narrow, and about one and a half times as long as broad. The female of this species has less waisted lateral margins to tergite two than in N. geniculata. The male has a yellow band on the abdomen on tergite three, whilst the female may be all black or have various spots and bars on tergites two and three.
Where is Neoascia tenur found?
Habitat: Marshes and fens, especially by the edges of standing water.
When is Neoascia tenur active?
Neoascia tenur: seasonal activity - April to November peaking in July..