Pipiza noctiluca
This record describes Pipiza noctiluca (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Likes sunbathing and visiting flowers along hedgerows and woodland edges.
Seasonal Activity
April to September peaking late May to early June.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae appear to feed on an aphid species found on Hogweeds.
Additional species information
Recorded status
The species is widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Pipiza noctiluca. 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 Pipiza noctiluca (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pipiza noctiluca
Where is Pipiza noctiluca found?
Habitat: Likes sunbathing and visiting flowers along hedgerows and woodland edges.
When is Pipiza noctiluca active?
Pipiza noctiluca: seasonal activity - April to September peaking late May to early June..
What is the life cycle of a Pipiza noctiluca?
The larvae appear to feed on an aphid species found on Hogweeds.