Phasia obesa
This record describes Phasia obesa (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 4-6mm. Abdomen with light grey markings viewed from above/behind. 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. Phasia obesa is a parasite of Heteropteran bugs. Widespread in the southern half of Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tachinidae
- Genus
- Phasia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Grassland, scrub and woodland margins.
Seasonal Activity
May to September
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Phasia obesa is a parasite of Heteropteran bugs.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Phasia obesa. 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 Phasia obesa (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phasia obesa
What is Phasia obesa?
Phasia obesa is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Phasia obesa?
4-6mm. Abdomen with light grey markings viewed from above/behind.
Where is Phasia obesa found?
Habitat: Grassland, scrub and woodland margins.
When is Phasia obesa active?
Phasia obesa: seasonal activity - May to September.
What is the life cycle of a Phasia obesa?
Phasia obesa is a parasite of Heteropteran bugs.