Phaonia valida
This record describes Phaonia valida (species). Recorded family: Muscidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
9.5-11mm. A large and mainly brown muscid with the legs and the tip of the scutellum red. The lower orbital hairs (behind the head) are typically reddish and it has a pale base to the antennae. Can be seen April to November basking on tree trunks, etc. Common and widespread in much of Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in various habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Can be seen April to November basking on tree trunks, etc.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Breeds in leaf litter.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in much of Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Phaonia valida. 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 valida (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phaonia valida
What is Phaonia valida?
Phaonia valida is a species in the family Muscidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Phaonia valida found?
Habitat: Found in various habitats.
When is Phaonia valida active?
Phaonia valida: seasonal activity - Can be seen April to November basking on tree trunks, etc..
What is the life cycle of a Phaonia valida?
Breeds in leaf litter.