Rhagio scolopaceus
This record describes Rhagio scolopaceus (species). Recorded family: Rhagionidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 8 to 16 mm. Like other Rhagio species R. scolopaceus are yellowy-orange (sometimes darkened) flies with long, slender legs. The sides of the thorax are grey as are the tops of the legs. The wing has several darkened marks. They tend to sit on leaves in moist vegetation, and can be seen in hedgerows and woodland edges.
Wikipedia reference for Rhagio scolopaceus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhagio_scolopaceus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Family
- Rhagionidae (Snipe Flies)
- Genus
- Rhagio
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
They tend to sit on leaves in moist vegetation, and can be seen in hedgerows and woodland edges.
Seasonal Activity
May to July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Their larvae dwell in the ground.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Rhagio scolopaceus. 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 Rhagio scolopaceus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhagio scolopaceus
What is Rhagio scolopaceus?
Rhagio scolopaceus is a species in the family Rhagionidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Rhagio scolopaceus?
8 to 16 mm. Like other
Where is Rhagio scolopaceus found?
Habitat: They tend to sit on leaves in moist vegetation, and can be seen in hedgerows and woodland edges.
When is Rhagio scolopaceus active?
Rhagio scolopaceus: seasonal activity - May to July..
What is the life cycle of a Rhagio scolopaceus?
Their larvae dwell in the ground.