Periscepsia spathulata
This record describes Periscepsia spathulata (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Flies in this tachinid fly genus are difficult to identify and most will need to be checked to the relevant keys. 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. It can occur in woodland, heathland, brownfield habitat and scrubby grassland. Adults fly from May to October probably as 2-3 generations. Hosts are the caterpillars of various noctuid moths Periscepsia spathulata is common in southern Britain (our most frequent Periscepsia) with records extending more thinly to Sutherland. https://www.flickr.com/photos/63075200@N07/sets/72177720303469630
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tachinidae
- Genus
- Periscepsia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It can occur in woodland, heathland, brownfield habitat and scrubby grassland.
Seasonal Activity
Adults fly from May to October probably as 2-3 generations.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Hosts are the caterpillars of various noctuid moths
Additional species information
Recorded status
Periscepsia spathulata is common in southern Britain (our most frequent Periscepsia) with records extending more thinly to Sutherland.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Periscepsia spathulata. 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 Periscepsia spathulata (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Periscepsia spathulata
What is Periscepsia spathulata?
Periscepsia spathulata is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Periscepsia spathulata found?
Habitat: It can occur in woodland, heathland, brownfield habitat and scrubby grassland.
When is Periscepsia spathulata active?
Periscepsia spathulata: seasonal activity - Adults fly from May to October probably as 2-3 generations..
What is the life cycle of a Periscepsia spathulata?
Hosts are the caterpillars of various noctuid moths