Terellia ruficauda
This record describes Terellia ruficauda (species). Recorded family: Tephritidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a well marked gall fly with dark patches on the wings. There are other very similar species in this genus which means that detailed examination of an actual specimen is generally needed to identify the exact species. A red box around the image indicates that we think it is likely to be this species but can't be 100% certain. 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. Larvae feed on various thistles causing galls to form. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Superfamily
- Tephritoidea
- Family
- Tephritidae (Fruit Flies)
- Subfamily
- Tephritinae
- Tribe
- Terelliini
- Genus
- Terellia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Around thistles, the larval food plant.
Seasonal Activity
Late spring to autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae feed on various thistles causing galls to form.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England and Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Terellia ruficauda. 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 Terellia ruficauda (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Terellia ruficauda
What is Terellia ruficauda?
Terellia ruficauda is a species in the family Tephritidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Terellia ruficauda found?
Habitat: Around thistles, the larval food plant.
When is Terellia ruficauda active?
Terellia ruficauda: seasonal activity - Late spring to autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Terellia ruficauda?
Larvae feed on various thistles causing galls to form.