Sphaerocera curvipes
This record describes Sphaerocera curvipes (species). Recorded family: Sphaeroceridae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species of Lesser Dung Fly has a characteristic hooked spine that arches under the base tarsal segment of the hind leg. Males have noticeably swollen hind femora. Detailed images are required showing the distinguishing features. Often found around dung and decomposing plant matter, especially horse dung. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Sphaerocera curvipes: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sphaerocera_curvipes.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Sphaeroceroidea
- Family
- Sphaeroceridae (Lesser Dung Flies)
- Subfamily
- Sphaerocerinae
- Genus
- Sphaerocera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found around dung and decomposing plant matter, especially horse dung.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It seems to be widespread in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Sphaerocera curvipes. 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 Sphaerocera curvipes (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Sphaerocera curvipes
What is Sphaerocera curvipes?
Sphaerocera curvipes is a species in the family Sphaeroceridae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Sphaerocera curvipes found?
Habitat: Often found around dung and decomposing plant matter, especially horse dung.
When is Sphaerocera curvipes active?
Sphaerocera curvipes: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn..