Rivellia syngenesiae
This record describes Rivellia syngenesiae (species). Recorded family: Platystomatidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A distinctive little picture-winged fly that is most likely to be confused with the ulidiid Herina frondescentiae or some tephritids of the genus Urophora, though the wing markings are very different when compared with these. The adults wave their wings much like some Herina and Sepsis species. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Damp or marshy places where it seems to be associated with Greater Bird's-foot Trefoil. This is a widespread and locally common species. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Platystomatidae
- Genus
- Rivellia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Damp or marshy places where it seems to be associated with Greater Bird's-foot Trefoil.
Seasonal Activity
Summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
This is a widespread and locally common species.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Rivellia syngenesiae. 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 Rivellia syngenesiae (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Rivellia syngenesiae
What is Rivellia syngenesiae?
Rivellia syngenesiae is a species in the family Platystomatidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Rivellia syngenesiae found?
Habitat: Damp or marshy places where it seems to be associated with Greater Bird's-foot Trefoil.
When is Rivellia syngenesiae active?
Rivellia syngenesiae: seasonal activity - Summer..