Peplomyza litura
This record describes Peplomyza litura (species). Recorded family: Lauxaniidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5 mm. A handsome little fly of an overall orangey brown appearance, but with striped thorax, banded eyes and large dark shaded areas on the wings. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Hedgerows and woodland edge often seen on tree trunks. Mainly June to October but has been recorded in most months. Fairly frequent and widespread throughout much of England and Wales. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Lauxaniidae
- Genus
- Peplomyza
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Hedgerows and woodland edge often seen on tree trunks.
Seasonal Activity
Mainly June to October but has been recorded in most months.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent and widespread throughout much of England and Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Peplomyza litura. 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 Peplomyza litura (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Peplomyza litura
What is Peplomyza litura?
Peplomyza litura is a species in the family Lauxaniidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Peplomyza litura?
5 mm. A handsome little fly of an overall orangey brown appearance, but with striped thorax, banded eyes and large dark shaded areas on the wings.
Where is Peplomyza litura found?
Habitat: Hedgerows and woodland edge often seen on tree trunks.
When is Peplomyza litura active?
Peplomyza litura: seasonal activity - Mainly June to October but has been recorded in most months..