Phaonia trimaculata
This record describes Phaonia trimaculata (species). Recorded family: Muscidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Around 10mm, this is a fairly distinctive and well marked species though still requires a specimen to be examined in detail for identification to be sure. 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. The larvae of Phaonia trimaculata feed on the larvae of Delia radicum, often known as the Cabbage Root Fly. Widespread in the southern half of Britain, but lack of records makes true status difficult to determine.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often recorded in agricultural areas.
Seasonal Activity
Late spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae of Phaonia trimaculata feed on the larvae of Delia radicum, often known as the Cabbage Root Fly.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain, but lack of records makes true status difficult to determine.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Phaonia trimaculata. 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 trimaculata (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phaonia trimaculata
What is Phaonia trimaculata?
Phaonia trimaculata is a species in the family Muscidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Phaonia trimaculata found?
Habitat: Often recorded in agricultural areas.
When is Phaonia trimaculata active?
Phaonia trimaculata: seasonal activity - Late spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Phaonia trimaculata?
The larvae of Phaonia trimaculata feed on the larvae of Delia radicum, often known as the Cabbage Root Fly.