Black Colonel
Odontomyia tigrina
This record describes Odontomyia tigrina (species). Recorded family: Stratiomyidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Odontomyia tigrina is a medium-sized soldierfly with a black body. (see 'Further Information' link below) Usually associated with coastal marsh areas, but occasionally recorded further inland near wet areas, ditches etc. Widespread but local in England south of The Wash. Steven Falk's Flickr images for Odontomyia tigrina No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Stratiomyidae
- Genus
- Odontomyia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually associated with coastal marsh areas, but occasionally recorded further inland near wet areas, ditches etc.
Seasonal Activity
Peak time for adults is May and June.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but local in England south of The Wash.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Odontomyia tigrina. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Colonel
What is Black Colonel?
Black Colonel (Odontomyia tigrina) is a species in the family Stratiomyidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Black Colonel found?
Habitat: Usually associated with coastal marsh areas, but occasionally recorded further inland near wet areas, ditches etc.
When is Black Colonel active?
Black Colonel: seasonal activity - Peak time for adults is May and June..