Sepedon sphegea
This record describes Sepedon sphegea (species). Recorded family: Sciomyzidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 8 to 11 mm. The body of this species is mainly brown or blackish, but the femurs are a striking orange-red and the tarsi are black. The hind femurs have a distinctive row of ventral bristles. 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. Marshes and wet meadows, pond edges etc. Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales.
Wikipedia reference for Sepedon sphegea: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sepedon_sphegea.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Sciomyzidae
- Genus
- Sepedon
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Marshes and wet meadows, pond edges etc.
Seasonal Activity
April to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae feed on molluscs.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Sepedon sphegea. 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 Sepedon sphegea (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Sepedon sphegea
What is Sepedon sphegea?
Sepedon sphegea is a species in the family Sciomyzidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Sepedon sphegea?
8 to 11 mm. The body of this species is mainly brown or blackish, but the femurs are a striking orange-red and the tarsi are black. The hind femurs have a distinctive row of ventral bristles.
Where is Sepedon sphegea found?
Habitat: Marshes and wet meadows, pond edges etc.
When is Sepedon sphegea active?
Sepedon sphegea: seasonal activity - April to October..
What is the life cycle of a Sepedon sphegea?
The larvae feed on molluscs.