Tipula fraterna
This record describes Tipula fraterna (species). Recorded family: Tipulidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wing with a conspicuous white crossband reaching hind margin, wing beyond crossband dark or with a white spot in cell r5 widely separated from crossband.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Eastern USA
Seasonal Activity
June and July in the Northeast
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Tipula fraterna. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tipula fraterna
What is Tipula fraterna?
Tipula fraterna is a species in the family Tipulidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Tipula fraterna?
Wing with a conspicuous white crossband reaching hind margin, wing beyond crossband dark or with a white spot in cell r5 widely separated from crossband.
Where is Tipula fraterna found?
Range: Eastern USA
When is Tipula fraterna active?
Tipula fraterna: seasonal activity - June and July in the Northeast.