Paraplatypeza bicincta
This record describes Paraplatypeza bicincta (species). Recorded family: Platypezidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Female | Grey-dusted head and thorax, three blackish stripes on thorax with middle one widest, abdomen black with light grey spots largest on tergites 3-4, tergites 2 and 5 completely black. |
| Male | Completely dull black. Pale yellow pterostigma contrasting with rest of wing which is clear. |
| Female | Polyporivora females. Tergite 6 is grey-dusted in P. bicincta but black in Polyporivora . |
| Male | Paraplatypeza atra . Also males of Platypeza , Polyporivora , Kesselimyia and Lindneromyia . Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required showing the diagnostic features. Male specimens should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Mid-September to the end of October, peaking at the beginning of October. Larvae feed in the fungus Pluteus cervinus (Deer Shield Fungus). A handful of records from the southern half of England. |
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Platypezidae
- Genus
- Paraplatypeza
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Deciduous and mixed woodlands.
Seasonal Activity
Mid-September to the end of October, peaking at the beginning of October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae feed in the fungus
Additional species information
Recorded status
A handful of records from the southern half of England.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Paraplatypeza bicincta. 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 Paraplatypeza bicincta (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Paraplatypeza bicincta
What is Paraplatypeza bicincta?
Paraplatypeza bicincta is a species in the family Platypezidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Paraplatypeza bicincta?
3.5-4mm
Where is Paraplatypeza bicincta found?
Habitat: Deciduous and mixed woodlands.
When is Paraplatypeza bicincta active?
Paraplatypeza bicincta: seasonal activity - Mid-September to the end of October, peaking at the beginning of October..
What is the life cycle of a Paraplatypeza bicincta?
Larvae feed in the fungus