Phytomyza conyzae
This record describes Phytomyza conyzae (species). Recorded family: Agromyzidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The larva of the fly Phytomyza conyzae mines the leaves of various Fleabanes, including Common Fleabane. The mine can be either an upper or lower surface corridor, often located by the midrib. Frass often appears in in pearl strings. The mine initially starts pale but soon becomes darker. See the National Agromyzidae Recording Scheme webpage for this species for further details of puparium and adult insect. ref.: Warrington, B.P. (2023). Phytomyza conyzae . Accessed at https://agromyzidae.co.uk/species/agromyzidae/phytomyzinae/phytomyza/ph… on 13/12/2023) Leafmine: Please provide a back-lit image of the mine and state the host plant. Where the host plants (Fleabanes) occur. Click on the ' further details ' link in the 'Description' section above. Then click on the Phenology tab which will provide phenology details for both adult and larval stages. The leafmines can be found in most months, but mainly between June and September. In Britain this species is fairly widespread but quite local.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Agromyzidae
- Genus
- Phytomyza
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Where the host plants (Fleabanes) occur.
Seasonal Activity
Click on the '
Additional species information
Recorded status
In Britain this species is fairly widespread but quite local.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Phytomyza conyzae. 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 Phytomyza conyzae (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phytomyza conyzae
What is Phytomyza conyzae?
Phytomyza conyzae is a species in the family Agromyzidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Phytomyza conyzae found?
Habitat: Where the host plants (Fleabanes) occur.
When is Phytomyza conyzae active?
Phytomyza conyzae: seasonal activity - Click on the '.