Trigonometopus frontalis
This record describes Trigonometopus frontalis (species). Recorded family: Lauxaniidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small brown fly with a wedge-shaped head. The long wings give a narrow shape to the eye. The wings are semi-opaque and have three dark marks. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required showing the identifying characters. Widespread but local across southern and central England and Wales. The record of 22nd December 2019 was the fifth VC55, but it is probably under-recorded.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Lauxaniidae
- Genus
- Trigonometopus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Marshy areas with stands of pond sedge.
Seasonal Activity
All year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but local across southern and central England and Wales.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Trigonometopus frontalis. 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 Trigonometopus frontalis (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Trigonometopus frontalis
What is Trigonometopus frontalis?
Trigonometopus frontalis is a species in the family Lauxaniidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Trigonometopus frontalis found?
Habitat: Marshy areas with stands of pond sedge.
When is Trigonometopus frontalis active?
Trigonometopus frontalis: seasonal activity - All year..