Norellisoma spinimanum
This record describes Norellisoma spinimanum (species). Recorded family: Scathophagidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This orange plant fly is distinguished from similar species by a double row of spines on the front tibia. The thorax and legs are orange, the abdomen orangey-grey. 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 associated with the Dock family of plants (Rumex) and is frequent in moist locations and wooded areas. Widespread in England and Wales, fewer records from Scotland.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Muscoidea
- Family
- Scathophagidae (Dung Flies)
- Subfamily
- Scathophaginae
- Genus
- Norellisoma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is associated with the Dock family of plants (Rumex) and is frequent in moist locations and wooded areas.
Seasonal Activity
April to October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England and Wales, fewer records from Scotland.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Norellisoma spinimanum. 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 Norellisoma spinimanum (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Norellisoma spinimanum
What is Norellisoma spinimanum?
Norellisoma spinimanum is a species in the family Scathophagidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Norellisoma spinimanum found?
Habitat: It is associated with the Dock family of plants (Rumex) and is frequent in moist locations and wooded areas.
When is Norellisoma spinimanum active?
Norellisoma spinimanum: seasonal activity - April to October..