DipteraTachinidae

Pelatachina tibialis

This record describes Pelatachina tibialis (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.

Identification and Appearance

Pelatachina tibialis - Pelatachina tibialis

Length 7-9mm. Long reclinate bristles in the parafrontal area distinguish this species from most other Tachinids but are not diagnostic on their own. Good quality photographs showing the distinguishing features are required. Larvae chiefly parasitise Nymphalidae larvae, mostly Inachis io and Aglais urticae . No additional images available for this species.

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Diptera
Genus
Pelatachina

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Habitat

Where the host species are found.

Seasonal Activity

Adults are found from May to June.

Diet and Behavior

Life History

Larvae chiefly parasitise Nymphalidae larvae, mostly

Additional species information

Recorded status

Widespread.

About Flies: the wider group

Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Pelatachina tibialis. 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.

Explore Diptera families and species →

Photos of Pelatachina tibialis (2)

Pelatachina tibialis - photo 1
Pelatachina tibialis - photo 2

Frequently Asked Questions About Pelatachina tibialis

What is Pelatachina tibialis?

Pelatachina tibialis is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.

How big is Pelatachina tibialis?

7-9mm. Long reclinate bristles in the parafrontal area distinguish this species from most other Tachinids but are not diagnostic on their own.

Where is Pelatachina tibialis found?

Habitat: Where the host species are found.

When is Pelatachina tibialis active?

Pelatachina tibialis: seasonal activity - Adults are found from May to June..

What is the life cycle of a Pelatachina tibialis?

Larvae chiefly parasitise Nymphalidae larvae, mostly