Sphecomyia vittata
This record describes Sphecomyia vittata (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Similar to Temnostoma species, but recognized by its long antennae . Apparently a Batesian mimic of Vespula squamosa worker
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
QC-FL to MB-NM
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Sphecomyia vittata ( Wiedemann 1830)
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Sphecomyia vittata. 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 Sphecomyia vittata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Martin Hauser; Additional contributions by cotinis , Ben Coulter , v belov , Kevin Moran
Frequently Asked Questions About Sphecomyia vittata
What is Sphecomyia vittata?
Sphecomyia vittata is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Sphecomyia vittata?
11-16 mm
How do you identify Sphecomyia vittata?
Similar to Temnostoma species, but recognized by its long antennae .
Where is Sphecomyia vittata found?
Range: QC-FL to MB-NM