Pipizella viduata
This record describes Pipizella viduata (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small, compact species (8 to 10 mm) with an all-black abdomen. The third segment of the antenna is about 1.5 times as long as wide in the male and about twice as long as wide in the female. It has a row of hairs on the anterior surface of the rear tibia that are only as wide as the tibia itself, which also helps to distinguish it from similar species. Pipizella virens has antenna that are longer and narrower (3rd sement: length = 2.5x width) Found on dry grassland, heathland and disturbed ground. May to September, peaking late June and early July. Associated with root aphids on several plant species. Widespread and fairly common in Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found on dry grassland, heathland and disturbed ground.
Seasonal Activity
May to September, peaking late June and early July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Associated with root aphids on several plant species.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly common in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Pipizella viduata. 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 Pipizella viduata (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pipizella viduata
What is Pipizella viduata?
Pipizella viduata is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Pipizella viduata?
= 2.5x width)
Where is Pipizella viduata found?
Habitat: Found on dry grassland, heathland and disturbed ground.
When is Pipizella viduata active?
Pipizella viduata: seasonal activity - May to September, peaking late June and early July..
What is the life cycle of a Pipizella viduata?
Associated with root aphids on several plant species.