Neolasioptera willistoni
This record describes Neolasioptera willistoni (species). Recorded family: Cecidomyiidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Cockerell's original description is here . Produces stem swellings on saltbush ( Atriplex canescens and A. polycarpa ). Lasioptera tibialis has been reared once from this type of gall, but is otherwise known only from galls on Keckiella (Scrophulariaceae) and is thought to be an inquiline .
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Sciaroidea
- Family
- Cecidomyiidae (Gall Midges and Wood Midges)
- Subfamily
- Cecidomyiinae
- Tribe
- Alycaulini
- Genus
- Neolasioptera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
California, Arizona, New Mexico
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Galls reported from host plants Atriplex canescens and A. polycarpa , both species of "saltbrush" in family Chenopodiaceae.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Named after Samuel W. Williston , who informed Cockerell that it was an undescribed species after being sent a drawing of the type.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Neolasioptera willistoni. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Neolasioptera willistoni
What is Neolasioptera willistoni?
Neolasioptera willistoni is a species in the family Cecidomyiidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Neolasioptera willistoni?
Cockerell's original description is here .
Where is Neolasioptera willistoni found?
Range: California, Arizona, New Mexico
What does Neolasioptera willistoni eat?
The diet of the Neolasioptera willistoni includes Galls reported from host plants Atriplex canescens and A. polycarpa , both species of saltbrush in family Chenopodiaceae..