Sphiximorpha cylindrica
This record describes Sphiximorpha cylindrica (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The relatively large yellow lateral markings on each side of the 2nd abdominal segment (extending nearly its entire length) are distinctive and diagnostic for this species. The relatively short frontal prominence/antennifer is characteristic for Sphiximorpha , however the the waist (= narrowed 2nd abdominal segment) here is less constricted than in most Sphiximorpha , and closer in shape to that of typical Ceriana . In 1935, Hull described Cerioides aldrichi ( decapitated holotype images here ), which is listed as a junior synonym of Sphiximorpha cylindrica by Systema Dipterorum ...though the 2nd abdominal segment appears a bit shorter in that holotype specimen, and the shape (and color) of large lateral spot on the 2nd abdominal segment looks a bit different than that seen in BugGuide and iNaturalist posts.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
California (and Oregon, per iNaturalist observations ).
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Sphiximorpha cylindrica. 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 Sphiximorpha cylindrica (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Aaron Schusteff; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Sphiximorpha cylindrica
What is Sphiximorpha cylindrica?
Sphiximorpha cylindrica is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Sphiximorpha cylindrica?
The relatively large yellow lateral markings on each side of the 2nd abdominal segment (extending nearly its entire length) are distinctive and diagnostic for this species. The relatively short frontal prominence/antennifer is characteristic for Sphiximorpha , however the the waist (= narrowed 2nd abdominal segment) here is less constricted than in most Sphiximorpha , and closer in shape to that of typical Ceriana .
Where is Sphiximorpha cylindrica found?
Range: California (and Oregon, per iNaturalist observations ).