Paradidyma singularis
This record describes Paradidyma singularis (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
can be distinguished from other species of Paradidyma by the combination of black legs, a well-developed row of parafacial setae extending from lowest pair of frontal seta to near the vibrissae, moderately wide parafacials, R4+5 meeting M at or very slightly before wing margin, thoracic stripes conspicuous, and abdomen with silver bands on bases of tergites (Reinhard 1934) The species also has hairy eyes and 3 pairs of presutural dorsocentral setae.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Oestroidea
- Family
- Tachinidae (Parasitic Flies)
- Subfamily
- Tachininae
- Tribe
- Minthoini
- Genus
- Paradidyma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Contiguous United States
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Atrophopoda singularis Townsend, 1891 Paradidyma singularis
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Paradidyma singularis. 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 Paradidyma singularis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Vox Sciurorum , Arturo Santos
Frequently Asked Questions About Paradidyma singularis
What is Paradidyma singularis?
Paradidyma singularis is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Paradidyma singularis?
can be distinguished from other species of Paradidyma by the combination of black legs, a well-developed row of parafacial setae extending from lowest pair of frontal seta to near the vibrissae, moderately wide parafacials, R4+5 meeting M at or very slightly before wing margin, thoracic stripes conspicuous, and abdomen with silver bands on bases of tergites (Reinhard 1934) The species also has hairy eyes and 3 pairs of presutural dorsocentral setae.
Where is Paradidyma singularis found?
Range: Contiguous United States