Terellia serratulae
This record describes Terellia serratulae (species). Recorded family: Tephritidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A gall fly that has fairly clear wings and an abdomen with a chequered pattern of beige or pale green and black. 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. The larvae feed mainly on thistles causing galls to form. Scattered records from England and the south coast of Wales.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tephritidae
- Genus
- Terellia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Around thistles.
Seasonal Activity
Summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae feed mainly on thistles causing galls to form.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Scattered records from England and the south coast of Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Terellia serratulae. 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 serratulae (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Terellia serratulae
What is Terellia serratulae?
Terellia serratulae is a species in the family Tephritidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Terellia serratulae found?
Habitat: Around thistles.
When is Terellia serratulae active?
Terellia serratulae: seasonal activity - Summer..
What is the life cycle of a Terellia serratulae?
The larvae feed mainly on thistles causing galls to form.