Sciapus platypterus
This record describes Sciapus platypterus (species). Recorded family: Dolichopodidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6 or 7mm. Males have white middle tarsi. Females have front femora with a row of strong ventral spines in the basal half and three strong bristles at the top of the front coxa. The genus Sciapus is recognised by the wing venation. Vein M forks with the upper split reaching wing edge just below vein R4+5. The lower split nearly reaching the wing edge. To be seen around hedgerows and on tree trunks. Widespread, but not particularly frequent in Britain.
Wikipedia reference for Sciapus platypterus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sciapus_platypterus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Empidoidea
- Family
- Dolichopodidae (Longlegged Flies)
- Subfamily
- Sciapodinae
- Genus
- Sciapus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
To be seen around hedgerows and on tree trunks.
Seasonal Activity
Summer
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Preys on small insects.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread, but not particularly frequent in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Sciapus platypterus. 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 Sciapus platypterus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Sciapus platypterus
What is Sciapus platypterus?
Sciapus platypterus is a species in the family Dolichopodidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Sciapus platypterus?
6 or 7mm. Males have white middle tarsi. Females have front femora with a row of strong ventral spines in the basal half and three strong bristles at the top of the front coxa.
Where is Sciapus platypterus found?
Habitat: To be seen around hedgerows and on tree trunks.
When is Sciapus platypterus active?
Sciapus platypterus: seasonal activity - Summer.
What is the life cycle of a Sciapus platypterus?
Preys on small insects.