Philophylla caesio
This record describes Philophylla caesio (species). Recorded family: Tephritidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small Tephritid fly with heavily patterned wings. Usually in areas where nettles are present. The larvae mine the leaf stalks of nettles. Found in Wales and in England as far north as Yorkshire.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tephritidae
- Genus
- Philophylla
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually in areas where nettles are present.
Seasonal Activity
Summer and autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae mine the leaf stalks of nettles.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Found in Wales and in England as far north as Yorkshire.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Philophylla caesio. 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 Philophylla caesio (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Philophylla caesio
What is Philophylla caesio?
Philophylla caesio is a species in the family Tephritidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Philophylla caesio found?
Habitat: Usually in areas where nettles are present.
When is Philophylla caesio active?
Philophylla caesio: seasonal activity - Summer and autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Philophylla caesio?
The larvae mine the leaf stalks of nettles.