Notiphila pulchrifrons
This record describes Notiphila pulchrifrons (species). Recorded family: Ephydridae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The very strongly contrasting markings on the top of the head combined with distinct stripes on scutum extending less distinctly onto scutellum should distinguish this species from other Notiphila .
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Ephydroidea
- Family
- Ephydridae (Shore Flies)
- Subfamily
- Hydrelliinae
- Genus
- Notiphila
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Mostly south of 40 degrees latitude
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: "Beautiful front"; the top of the head has contrasting markings.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Notiphila pulchrifrons. 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 Notiphila pulchrifrons (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by John F. Carr
Frequently Asked Questions About Notiphila pulchrifrons
What is Notiphila pulchrifrons?
Notiphila pulchrifrons is a species in the family Ephydridae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Notiphila pulchrifrons?
The very strongly contrasting markings on the top of the head combined with distinct stripes on scutum extending less distinctly onto scutellum should distinguish this species from other Notiphila .
Where is Notiphila pulchrifrons found?
Range: Mostly south of 40 degrees latitude