Ommatius ouachitensis
This record describes Ommatius ouachitensis (species). Recorded family: Asilidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The genus character of the branched antennae for this group is usually visible. Can be common in summer in the right habitat. Fearless of approach. Often perches with the characteristic upright stance at the top tips of downed tree branches or grasses.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Twig tip percher. Near woodlands and in openings along the edges of woodlands. Can be found in shaded woods but less common there than O. gemma .
Geographic Range
MD-VA-AL to KS-TX
Seasonal Activity
Mid to late summer in the south.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ommatius ouachitensis Bullington & Lavigne 1984
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Ommatius ouachitensis. 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 Ommatius ouachitensis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Cotinis; Additional contributions by hraney , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Ommatius ouachitensis
What is Ommatius ouachitensis?
Ommatius ouachitensis is a species in the family Asilidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Ommatius ouachitensis?
8-14 mm
How do you identify Ommatius ouachitensis?
The genus character of the branched antennae for this group is usually visible.
Where is Ommatius ouachitensis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Twig tip percher. Near woodlands and in openings along the edges of woodlands. Can be found in shaded woods but less common there than O. gemma . |
| Range | MD-VA-AL to KS-TX |
When is Ommatius ouachitensis active?
Ommatius ouachitensis: seasonal activity - Mid to late summer in the south..