Phytomyza krygeri
This record describes Phytomyza krygeri (species). Recorded family: Agromyzidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance

The larva of Phytomyza krygeri feeds in the seed capsules of Aquilegia vulgaris (Columbine). Pupation occurs in the seed head, with one puparium occurring in each seed capsule. The affected seed capsules discolour and become brown (as shown below). The larva is bright yellow and during development may leave one seed capsule and enter another, seen by congruent holes in adjacent seed capsules. The puparium is deep brown with all segments having a row of stout spinules, which are most prominent in the anal region. See the National Agromyzidae Recording Scheme webpage for this species for further details of puparium and adult insect. ref.: Warrington, B.P. (2023). Phytomyza krygeri . Accessed at https://agromyzidae.co.uk/species/agromyzidae/phytomyzinae/phytomyza/phytomyza-krygeri/ on 13/12/2023) Mine: Please provide detailed images of the mine (and any contents) to support your record. Host plant: Aquilegia vulgaris (Columbine) 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 mine is most likely to be seen between June and August. In Britain this species is classed as Nationally Scarce B, although it may be under recorded.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Opomyzoidea
- Family
- Agromyzidae (Leaf Miner Flies)
- Subfamily
- Phytomyzinae
- Genus
- Phytomyza
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Host plant:
Seasonal Activity
Click on the '
Additional species information
Recorded status
In Britain this species is classed as Nationally Scarce B, although it may be under recorded.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Phytomyza krygeri. 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 krygeri (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phytomyza krygeri
What is Phytomyza krygeri?
Phytomyza krygeri is a species in the family Agromyzidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Phytomyza krygeri found?
Habitat: Host plant:
When is Phytomyza krygeri active?
Phytomyza krygeri: seasonal activity - Click on the '.
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