Platycheirus splendidus
This record describes Platycheirus splendidus (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Very similar to P. scutatus and only described as a separate species in 1998, by Graham Rotheray. Males can be easily distinguished from those of scutatus by the deep black frons (pale grey-dusted in scutatus). The spots on the tergites, especially tergite 2, are smaller. Females are not currently separable. P. aurolateralis is also similar but darker with dusky spots on the tergites, often missing entirely on tergite 2. A (males only – females cannot be identified from photographs) Please provide good quality close-up images. Recorded from a variety of habitats, though usually not far from trees. P. splendidus is mainly a spring and early summer-flying species. The mottled green, white and pink larvae have been reported attacking aphids on Wych Elm and Red Campion. It appears to be widespread but rather localised in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Recorded from a variety of habitats, though usually not far from trees.
Seasonal Activity
P. splendidus
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The mottled green, white and pink larvae have been reported attacking aphids on Wych Elm and Red Campion.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It appears to be widespread but rather localised in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Platycheirus splendidus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Platycheirus splendidus
What is Platycheirus splendidus?
Platycheirus splendidus is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Platycheirus splendidus found?
Habitat: Recorded from a variety of habitats, though usually not far from trees.
When is Platycheirus splendidus active?
Platycheirus splendidus: seasonal activity - P. splendidus.
What is the life cycle of a Platycheirus splendidus?
The mottled green, white and pink larvae have been reported attacking aphids on Wych Elm and Red Campion.