Phaonia palpata
This record describes Phaonia palpata (species). Recorded family: Muscidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6 to 8 mm. Generally dark grey with darker marks on the abdomen, four dark stripes on the thorax and further black marks on the scutellum. It has 3 pairs of dorso-central bristles behind the thoracic suture line and unusually large, flattened palps. Found in various habitats but may favour damper, well vegetated areas and woodland.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in various habitats but may favour damper, well vegetated areas and woodland.
Seasonal Activity
April to November
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae have been found in rotting wood.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England and Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Phaonia palpata. 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 Phaonia palpata (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phaonia palpata
What is Phaonia palpata?
Phaonia palpata is a species in the family Muscidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Phaonia palpata?
6 to 8 mm. Generally dark grey with darker marks on the abdomen, four dark stripes on the thorax and further black marks on the scutellum. It has 3 pairs of dorso-central bristles behind the thoracic suture line and unusually large, flattened palps.
Where is Phaonia palpata found?
Habitat: Found in various habitats but may favour damper, well vegetated areas and woodland.
When is Phaonia palpata active?
Phaonia palpata: seasonal activity - April to November.
What is the life cycle of a Phaonia palpata?
Larvae have been found in rotting wood.