Syrphus vitripennis
This record describes Syrphus vitripennis (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This species is very hard to distinguish from S. ribesii unless looking at the rear legs of the female: S. ribesii is all yellow whereas S. vitripennis has a black femur (top segment of leg). March to November peaking slightly in May, but most abundant in July and August. The larvae feed on aphids and are considered a useful garden species for this reason. It is a noted migrant. Common and widespread throughout Britain.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Frequents a wide range of habitats.
Seasonal Activity
March to November peaking slightly in May, but most abundant in July and August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae feed on aphids and are considered a useful garden species for this reason. It is a noted migrant.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread throughout Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Syrphus vitripennis. 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 Syrphus vitripennis (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Syrphus vitripennis
What is Syrphus vitripennis?
Syrphus vitripennis is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Syrphus vitripennis found?
Habitat: Frequents a wide range of habitats.
When is Syrphus vitripennis active?
Syrphus vitripennis: seasonal activity - March to November peaking slightly in May, but most abundant in July and August..
What is the life cycle of a Syrphus vitripennis?
The larvae feed on aphids and are considered a useful garden species for this reason. It is a noted migrant.