Tephritis bardanae
This record describes Tephritis bardanae (species). Recorded family: Tephritidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of many similar fruit flies with heavily patterned wings. It is sometimes possible to identify a species based on the wing patterning but some variation does occur, even within members of the same species. The larvae gall the receptacles, achenes and florets of burdock ( Arctium ) leaving blackened callus and debris. Puparia are black, and over-winter in dead flower heads Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Tephritis bardanae is found around the flower heads of Burdock. The larvae live on Burdock making a gall. Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales
Wikipedia reference for Tephritis bardanae: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tephritis_bardanae.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tephritidae
- Genus
- Tephritis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Tephritis bardanae is found around the flower heads of Burdock.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae live on Burdock making a gall.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Tephritis bardanae. 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 Tephritis bardanae (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Tephritis bardanae
What is Tephritis bardanae?
Tephritis bardanae is a species in the family Tephritidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Tephritis bardanae found?
Habitat: Tephritis bardanae is found around the flower heads of Burdock.
When is Tephritis bardanae active?
Tephritis bardanae: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Tephritis bardanae?
The larvae live on Burdock making a gall.