Neria cibaria
This record describes Neria cibaria (species). Recorded family: Micropezidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Neria are long-legged and long-bodied flies, with four UK species. N. cibaria has a dark and dusted thorax, an all-orange frons and an arista that is dark at the base. Neria commutata also has a dark and dusted thorax but the frons darkens towards the ocelli and the base of the arista is pale. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. It is found in woodland and other well vegetated areas. Feeds on smaller insects such as aphids. Fairly common and widespread in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Micropezidae
- Genus
- Neria
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is found in woodland and other well vegetated areas.
Seasonal Activity
May to July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on smaller insects such as aphids.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly common and widespread in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Neria cibaria. 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 Neria cibaria (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Neria cibaria
What is Neria cibaria?
Neria cibaria is a species in the family Micropezidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Neria cibaria found?
Habitat: It is found in woodland and other well vegetated areas.
When is Neria cibaria active?
Neria cibaria: seasonal activity - May to July..
What is the life cycle of a Neria cibaria?
Feeds on smaller insects such as aphids.