Nimioglossa planicosta
This record describes Nimioglossa planicosta (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Distinguished from other Nimioglossa and Microchaetina by the missing costal spine and narrowly separated male eyes.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Oestroidea
- Family
- Tachinidae (Parasitic Flies)
- Subfamily
- Dexiinae
- Tribe
- Dexiini
- Genus
- Nimioglossa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Western USA and southwestern Canada
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Probably named after the missing costal spine; similar species have a strong bristle near the tip of vein Sc.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Nimioglossa planicosta. 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 Nimioglossa planicosta (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by John F. Carr
Frequently Asked Questions About Nimioglossa planicosta
What is Nimioglossa planicosta?
Nimioglossa planicosta is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Nimioglossa planicosta?
Distinguished from other Nimioglossa and Microchaetina by the missing costal spine and narrowly separated male eyes.
Where is Nimioglossa planicosta found?
Range: Western USA and southwestern Canada