Saltella sphondylii
This record describes Saltella sphondylii (species). Recorded family: Sepsidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Size 2 to 3 mm. This fly has orange thighs and an orange scutellum although the degree of colouration is variable. It has a rather matt appearance compared to other Sepsidae and the scutellum is large and flat. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Saltella sphondylii: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saltella_sphondylii.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
The adults may be found around flowers.
Seasonal Activity
May to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae feed on dung.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in southern Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Saltella sphondylii. 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 Saltella sphondylii (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Saltella sphondylii
What is Saltella sphondylii?
Saltella sphondylii is a species in the family Sepsidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Saltella sphondylii?
2 to 3 mm. This fly has orange thighs and an orange scutellum although the degree of colouration is variable. It has a rather matt appearance compared to other Sepsidae and the scutellum is large and flat.
Where is Saltella sphondylii found?
Habitat: The adults may be found around flowers.
When is Saltella sphondylii active?
Saltella sphondylii: seasonal activity - May to August..
What is the life cycle of a Saltella sphondylii?
Larvae feed on dung.