Pachygaster leachii
This record describes Pachygaster leachii (species). Recorded family: Stratiomyidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A soldier fly with a small, black, rounded abdomen, clear wings, femora mainly yellow and bases of the antennae are orange. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Fairly frequent in southern Britain as far north as the Humber.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Stratiomyidae
- Genus
- Pachygaster
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Well wooded areas with Oak and Elm.
Seasonal Activity
Summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent in southern Britain as far north as the Humber.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Pachygaster leachii. 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 Pachygaster leachii (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pachygaster leachii
What is Pachygaster leachii?
Pachygaster leachii is a species in the family Stratiomyidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Pachygaster leachii found?
Habitat: Well wooded areas with Oak and Elm.
When is Pachygaster leachii active?
Pachygaster leachii: seasonal activity - Summer..