Scaeva selenitica
This record describes Scaeva selenitica (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wing length 10.5 to 12 mm. This is a large distinctive fly with three pairs of yellow comma markings (lunules) on the abdomen; these are white on Scaeva pyrastri. The commas on selenitica extend equally far forward at both the inner and outer ends. March to November peaking July and early September. Adults are often seen on flowers. The larvae feed on pine aphids. Widespread but local - it is more common in southern England than elsewhere in Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It favours conifers.
Seasonal Activity
March to November peaking July and early September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Adults are often seen on flowers. The larvae feed on pine aphids.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but local - it is more common in southern England than elsewhere in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Scaeva selenitica. 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 Scaeva selenitica (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Scaeva selenitica
What is Scaeva selenitica?
Scaeva selenitica is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Scaeva selenitica?
10.5 to 12 mm. This is a large distinctive fly with three pairs of yellow comma markings (lunules) on the abdomen; these are white on Scaeva pyrastri. The commas on selenitica extend equally far forward at both the inner and outer ends.
Where is Scaeva selenitica found?
Habitat: It favours conifers.
When is Scaeva selenitica active?
Scaeva selenitica: seasonal activity - March to November peaking July and early September..
What is the life cycle of a Scaeva selenitica?
Adults are often seen on flowers. The larvae feed on pine aphids.