Tetanocera phyllophora
This record describes Tetanocera phyllophora (species). Recorded family: Sciomyzidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of three Tetanocera species with the fore margin of the wing distinctly darkened but the only one without a dark mark on the occiput on the back of the head above the 'neck' and typically with a much paler appearance in the field than T. elata or T. punctifrons (the other two species with the fore margin of the wing distinctly darkened). Tetanocera elata and Tetanocera punctifrons. 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. This is essentially a woodland species, especially damper/humid (though not necessarily wet) woods with base-rich soils and a lush ground flora. Adults can be recorded from May until September. The larvae attack terrestrial snails such as Discus Snail. It is local but widespread in Britain and perhaps most frequent in hilly districts of the north and west. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Sciomyzidae
- Genus
- Tetanocera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
This is essentially a woodland species, especially damper/humid (though not necessarily wet) woods with base-rich soils and a lush ground flora.
Seasonal Activity
Adults can be recorded from May until September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae attack terrestrial snails such as Discus Snail.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is local but widespread in Britain and perhaps most frequent in hilly districts of the north and west.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Tetanocera phyllophora. 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 Tetanocera phyllophora (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Tetanocera phyllophora
What is Tetanocera phyllophora?
Tetanocera phyllophora is a species in the family Sciomyzidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Tetanocera phyllophora found?
Habitat: This is essentially a woodland species, especially damper/humid (though not necessarily wet) woods with base-rich soils and a lush ground flora.
When is Tetanocera phyllophora active?
Tetanocera phyllophora: seasonal activity - Adults can be recorded from May until September..
What is the life cycle of a Tetanocera phyllophora?
The larvae attack terrestrial snails such as Discus Snail.