Phryxe nemea
This record describes Phryxe nemea (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
c8mm. A common tachinid fly but without any obvious features. The abdomen is grey with black cross bands and the thorax has several black stripes. The scutellum usually has a pale red/brown tint towards the tip. A key character of the Phryxe genus is that the apical pair of bristles on the scutellum point vertically upwards. 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. Early May to early October, peaking in May. Like virtually all tachinids, it lays eggs on lepidopteran caterpillars. Phryxe nemea appears not to be fussy and many species play host to its larvae. Widespread across most of Britain and fairly common, particular in the south.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tachinidae
- Genus
- Phryxe
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually deciduous woodland and scrub.
Seasonal Activity
Early May to early October, peaking in May.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Like virtually all tachinids, it lays eggs on lepidopteran caterpillars.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread across most of Britain and fairly common, particular in the south.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Phryxe nemea. 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 Phryxe nemea (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phryxe nemea
What is Phryxe nemea?
Phryxe nemea is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Phryxe nemea found?
Habitat: Usually deciduous woodland and scrub.
When is Phryxe nemea active?
Phryxe nemea: seasonal activity - Early May to early October, peaking in May..
What is the life cycle of a Phryxe nemea?
Like virtually all tachinids, it lays eggs on lepidopteran caterpillars.