Sepsis fulgens
This record describes Sepsis fulgens (species). Recorded family: Sepsidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
2.5 to 3 mm. A black fly with dark wing spots (one on each wing), typical of the Sepsis genus. This is a difficult group to identify and specimens really need microscopic examination to arrive at the species. Males are easier to identify based on the ornamentation seen on the front femora where the front protuberance has two short spines. 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 Adults are most often seen around hedgerows and meadows feeding on nectar, and on dung where males will wait for the females to visit and lay their eggs. Early spring to late autumn with a peak around July and August The flies are active by day, and the sexes usually meet for mating around fresh dung where the eggs will be laid. Common and widespread in Britain, but identification is difficult.
Wikipedia reference for Sepsis fulgens: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sepsis_fulgens.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Adults are most often seen around hedgerows and meadows feeding on nectar, and on dung where males will wait for the females to visit and lay their eggs.
Seasonal Activity
Early spring to late autumn with a peak around July and August
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The flies are active by day, and the sexes usually meet for mating around fresh dung where the eggs will be laid.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in Britain, but identification is difficult.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Sepsis fulgens. 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 Sepsis fulgens (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Sepsis fulgens
What is Sepsis fulgens?
Sepsis fulgens is a species in the family Sepsidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Sepsis fulgens found?
Habitat: Adults are most often seen around hedgerows and meadows feeding on nectar, and on dung where males will wait for the females to visit and lay their eggs.
When is Sepsis fulgens active?
Sepsis fulgens: seasonal activity - Early spring to late autumn with a peak around July and August.
What is the life cycle of a Sepsis fulgens?
The flies are active by day, and the sexes usually meet for mating around fresh dung where the eggs will be laid.