Pherbellia dubia
This record describes Pherbellia dubia (species). Recorded family: Sciomyzidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A medium-large, rather slim and long-legged Pherbellia with a greyish mesonotum and the apical two-thirds of the 3rd antennal segment black (a character not seen in any other British Pherbellia but present in the buff-bodied Renocera pallida ). 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. Favours semi-natural broadleaved woodland where a lush ground flora is present. Most frequent in calcareous districts and avoiding the most acidic woods. Adults have been recorded from May to August. The larvae attack terrestrial, shade-loving snails such as Cochlicopa , Discus , Hygromia and Oxychilus . Widespread and frequent in much of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Sciomyzidae
- Genus
- Pherbellia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Favours semi-natural broadleaved woodland where a lush ground flora is present. Most frequent in calcareous districts and avoiding the most acidic woods.
Seasonal Activity
Adults have been recorded from May to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae attack terrestrial, shade-loving snails such as
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and frequent in much of Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Pherbellia dubia. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pherbellia dubia
What is Pherbellia dubia?
Pherbellia dubia is a species in the family Sciomyzidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Pherbellia dubia found?
Habitat: Favours semi-natural broadleaved woodland where a lush ground flora is present. Most frequent in calcareous districts and avoiding the most acidic woods.
When is Pherbellia dubia active?
Pherbellia dubia: seasonal activity - Adults have been recorded from May to August..
What is the life cycle of a Pherbellia dubia?
The larvae attack terrestrial, shade-loving snails such as