Twin-spot Centurion
Sargus bipunctatus
This record describes Sargus bipunctatus (species). Recorded family: Stratiomyidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance

This is our largest Sargus (wing length to 10mm). Thorax shiny metallic green, scutellum without spines, veins in the wing quite distinct. The male and female of this species differ considerably in appearance, males are very slim with a metallic green thorax and metallic bronze abdomen (like male Chloromyia formosa but with a much narrower build). Females have a broader build with the base of the abdomen extensively reddish contrasting with a blackish tip bearing blue reflections. Both sexes have orange legs and a pair of whitish spots on the frons just above the antennae. 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. Low vegetation. Adults can be found in a variety of open and wooded habitats, usually sunbathing on foliage in sheltered spots. The larvae have been reared from cow dung, compost, rotting vegetation and decaying fungi. This is a widespread and locally frequent species in England and Wales and is almost certainly under-recorded due to its late flight period.
Wikipedia reference for Sargus bipunctatus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sargus_bipunctatus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Family
- Stratiomyidae (Soldier flies)
- Subfamily
- Sarginae
- Genus
- Sargus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Low vegetation. Adults can be found in a variety of open and wooded habitats, usually sunbathing on foliage in sheltered spots.
Seasonal Activity
August to early November.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae have been reared from cow dung, compost, rotting vegetation and decaying fungi.
Additional species information
Recorded status
This is a widespread and locally frequent species in England and Wales and is almost certainly under-recorded due to its late flight period.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Sargus bipunctatus. 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 Twin-spot Centurion (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Twin-spot Centurion
What is Twin-spot Centurion?
Twin-spot Centurion (Sargus bipunctatus) is a species in the family Stratiomyidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Twin-spot Centurion found?
Habitat: Low vegetation. Adults can be found in a variety of open and wooded habitats, usually sunbathing on foliage in sheltered spots.
When is Twin-spot Centurion active?
Twin-spot Centurion: seasonal activity - August to early November..
What is the life cycle of a Twin-spot Centurion?
The larvae have been reared from cow dung, compost, rotting vegetation and decaying fungi.
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