Platycheirus manicatus
This record describes Platycheirus manicatus (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species has a less shiny thorax than other Platycheirus species and with large, rounded yellow spots on the abdomen. There are several similar hoverflies with yellow spots so care is needed to note their shape and size. Dry open grassland, and even in gardens. Widespread and common throughout Britain..
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Dry open grassland, and even in gardens.
Seasonal Activity
April to November peaking in June.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and common throughout Britain..
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Platycheirus manicatus. 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 Platycheirus manicatus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Platycheirus manicatus
What is Platycheirus manicatus?
Platycheirus manicatus is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Platycheirus manicatus found?
Habitat: Dry open grassland, and even in gardens.
When is Platycheirus manicatus active?
Platycheirus manicatus: seasonal activity - April to November peaking in June..