Rhingia rostrata
This record describes Rhingia rostrata (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wing length 7.5 to 9.5 mm. Similar to the much more common R. campestris, but in Rhingia rostrata the thorax is more bluish in colour, there are no dark edges to the abdomen, the legs have more orange and less black and it is generally brighter in colour being yellowy orange rather than a duller brownish orange. It seems to be found mainly in woodland (especially semi natural woodland). April to October peaking in August and early September. This species has undergone a major range expansion and is now widespread across the southern half of Britain to North Wales. It still seems to be local and occasional in our area, but probably increasing in numbers, and possibly overlooked and misidentified as R. campestris.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It seems to be found mainly in woodland (especially semi natural woodland).
Seasonal Activity
April to October peaking in August and early September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
This species has undergone a major range expansion and is now widespread across the southern half of Britain to North Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Rhingia rostrata. 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 Rhingia rostrata (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhingia rostrata
What is Rhingia rostrata?
Rhingia rostrata is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Rhingia rostrata?
7.5 to 9.5 mm. Similar to the much more common R. campestris, but in Rhingia rostrata the thorax is more bluish in colour, there are no dark edges to the abdomen, the legs have more orange and less black and it is generally brighter in colour being yellowy orange rather than a duller brownish orange.
Where is Rhingia rostrata found?
Habitat: It seems to be found mainly in woodland (especially semi natural woodland).
When is Rhingia rostrata active?
Rhingia rostrata: seasonal activity - April to October peaking in August and early September..