Platycheirus trichopus
This record describes Platycheirus trichopus (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Includes western specimens previously identified as Platycheirus obscurus .
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Rocky Mountains west, from Alaska to Mexico
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Platycheirus trichopus (Thomson, 1869)
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Platycheirus trichopus. 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 trichopus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Kelsey J.R.P. Byers; Additional contributions by Hartmut Wisch
Frequently Asked Questions About Platycheirus trichopus
What is Platycheirus trichopus?
Platycheirus trichopus is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Platycheirus trichopus?
6.8-9.4 mm
Where is Platycheirus trichopus found?
Range: Rocky Mountains west, from Alaska to Mexico