Parhelophilus frutetorum
This record describes Parhelophilus frutetorum (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
There are three very similar Parhelophilus species, all are compact and brightly coloured hoverflies, well covered in yellow hairs. Separation of the species needs careful and close examination. Particularly alongside ponds and ditches. The larvae have been found in the leaf shields of Bulrush.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Particularly alongside ponds and ditches.
Seasonal Activity
April to October, peaking in June.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae have been found in the leaf shields of Bulrush.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is widespread in southern Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Parhelophilus frutetorum. 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 Parhelophilus frutetorum (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Parhelophilus frutetorum
What is Parhelophilus frutetorum?
Parhelophilus frutetorum is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Parhelophilus frutetorum found?
Habitat: Particularly alongside ponds and ditches.
When is Parhelophilus frutetorum active?
Parhelophilus frutetorum: seasonal activity - April to October, peaking in June..
What is the life cycle of a Parhelophilus frutetorum?
The larvae have been found in the leaf shields of Bulrush.