Platycheirus rosarum
This record describes Platycheirus rosarum (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Wet meadows, and along the edges of water bodies such as ponds and ditches.
Seasonal Activity
April to September peaking in June and July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but local in Britain. It can be abundant where it occurs.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Platycheirus rosarum. 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 rosarum (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Platycheirus rosarum
How big is Platycheirus rosarum?
5.5 to 7.75 mm. Both sexes are immediately recognisable by the shape and markings of the abdomen which widens steadily towards the tip and has a pair of pale yellow spots on segment T3 on an otherwise black background.
Where is Platycheirus rosarum found?
Habitat: Wet meadows, and along the edges of water bodies such as ponds and ditches.
When is Platycheirus rosarum active?
Platycheirus rosarum: seasonal activity - April to September peaking in June and July..