Siphona geniculata
This record describes Siphona geniculata (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Approx. 7mm. Generally green-grey and with orange femora and tibia. Flies in this genus have a very long and thin rigid articulated proboscis. Identification within the genus is challenging and relies on a combination of features - see ID guidance below. Siphona geniculata is the commonest in the genus but identification is difficult so other species may be simply under-recorded. Detailed examination is required. 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. Two or three generations per year. The larvae are parasites of Cranefly larvae in the family Tipulidae and overwinter inside this host. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tachinidae
- Genus
- Siphona
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
May be found in a variety of habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Flight period late May to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Two or three generations per year. The larvae are parasites of Cranefly larvae in the family Tipulidae and overwinter inside this host.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Siphona geniculata. 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 Siphona geniculata (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Siphona geniculata
What is Siphona geniculata?
Siphona geniculata is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Siphona geniculata found?
Habitat: May be found in a variety of habitats.
When is Siphona geniculata active?
Siphona geniculata: seasonal activity - Flight period late May to October..
What is the life cycle of a Siphona geniculata?
Two or three generations per year. The larvae are parasites of Cranefly larvae in the family Tipulidae and overwinter inside this host.