Tipula sayi
This record describes Tipula sayi (species). Recorded family: Tipulidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found in grassy areas along woodland edges.
Seasonal Activity
A late summer to fall species
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Tipula (Yamatotipula) sayi Alexander, 1911
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Tipula sayi. 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 Tipula sayi (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Chen Young; Additional contributions by Vox Sciurorum , PaleoJon
Frequently Asked Questions About Tipula sayi
How big is Tipula sayi?
12-15 mm
Where is Tipula sayi found?
Habitat: Often found in grassy areas along woodland edges.
When is Tipula sayi active?
Tipula sayi: seasonal activity - A late summer to fall species.