Nephrotoma gracilicornis
This record describes Nephrotoma gracilicornis (species). Recorded family: Tipulidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Floodplains; at higher altitudes in the southern parts of its range (VA, TN, NC)
Geographic Range
Southern Canada and Eastern U.S.: from NF to MB, south to MO east to NC
Seasonal Activity
Mid-June to end of August
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Immature stages unknown but probably in wet to moist soil
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Nephrotoma gracilicornis. 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 Nephrotoma gracilicornis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Stephen Luk
Frequently Asked Questions About Nephrotoma gracilicornis
Where is Nephrotoma gracilicornis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Floodplains; at higher altitudes in the southern parts of its range (VA, TN, NC) |
| Range | Southern Canada and Eastern U.S.: from NF to MB, south to MO east to NC |
When is Nephrotoma gracilicornis active?
Nephrotoma gracilicornis: seasonal activity - Mid-June to end of August.
What is the life cycle of a Nephrotoma gracilicornis?
Immature stages unknown but probably in wet to moist soil