Rhamphomyia sulcata
This record describes Rhamphomyia sulcata (species). Recorded family: Empididae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is quite a large dance fly with a grey and pinkish appearance. Males provide females with a nutritious prey item as a nuptial gift No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Well vegetated areas.
Seasonal Activity
Late spring and summer
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Males provide females with a nutritious prey item as a nuptial gift
Additional species information
Recorded status
Quite common and widespread in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Rhamphomyia sulcata. 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 Rhamphomyia sulcata (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhamphomyia sulcata
What is Rhamphomyia sulcata?
Rhamphomyia sulcata is a species in the family Empididae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Rhamphomyia sulcata found?
Habitat: Well vegetated areas.
When is Rhamphomyia sulcata active?
Rhamphomyia sulcata: seasonal activity - Late spring and summer.
What is the life cycle of a Rhamphomyia sulcata?
Males provide females with a nutritious prey item as a nuptial gift