Phytomyza fallaciosa
This record describes Phytomyza fallaciosa (species). Recorded family: (. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The larvae of the fly Phytomyza fallaciosa mine the leaves of various members of the Buttercup family ( Ranunculus ). A brown blotch is eventually formed, without green patches. Primary and secondary feeding lines are generally clear. Pupation occurs within the mine. See the National Agromyzidae Recording Scheme webpage for this species for further details of puparium and adult insect. Phytomyza notata / Phytomyza ranunculicola / Phytomyza rydeni ref.: Warrington, B.P. (2023). Phytomyza fallaciosa . Accessed at https://agromyzidae.co.uk/species/agromyzidae/phytomyzinae/phytomyza/ph… on 13/12/2023) Adult: 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. Leafmine: Please provide a back-lit image of the leafmine and state the host plant. Include images of the larva or pupa, if present. 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. Leafmines may be found between September and November.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Wherever the larval foodplants occur.
Seasonal Activity
Click on the '
Additional species information
Recorded status
In Britain this species is classed as Nationally Scarce B.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Phytomyza fallaciosa. 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 fallaciosa (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phytomyza fallaciosa
What is Phytomyza fallaciosa?
Phytomyza fallaciosa is a species in the family (, within the order Diptera.
How big is Phytomyza fallaciosa?
and identifying characters.
Where is Phytomyza fallaciosa found?
Habitat: Wherever the larval foodplants occur.
When is Phytomyza fallaciosa active?
Phytomyza fallaciosa: seasonal activity - Click on the '.