Streakless Greenbottle
Lucilia ampullacea
This record describes Lucilia ampullacea (species). Recorded family: Calliphoridae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
5-11mm. Metallic green can have a bluish colouration, depending on the light. It is very similar to other Lucilia species and microscopic examination is necessary to identify the species. See ID guidance below. 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. Lucilia ampullacea is a shade loving species often found in woodland and other well wooded areas. Larvae are presumed to develop primarily in carrion. Seems to be widespread in England and Wales but true status is difficult to determine due to lack of records.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Calliphoridae
- Genus
- Lucilia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Lucilia ampullacea
Seasonal Activity
May to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae are presumed to develop primarily in carrion.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Seems to be widespread in England and Wales but true status is difficult to determine due to lack of records.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Lucilia ampullacea. 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 Streakless Greenbottle (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Streakless Greenbottle
What is Streakless Greenbottle?
Streakless Greenbottle (Lucilia ampullacea) is a species in the family Calliphoridae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Streakless Greenbottle found?
Habitat: Lucilia ampullacea
When is Streakless Greenbottle active?
Streakless Greenbottle: seasonal activity - May to August..
What is the life cycle of a Streakless Greenbottle?
Larvae are presumed to develop primarily in carrion.