Xanthogramma citrofasciatum
This record describes Xanthogramma citrofasciatum (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wing length 6.5 to 10.5 mm. This species is black with lemon markings. It is similar to the more common Xanthogramma pedissequum but the sharply defined narrow triangular marking on T2 and the predominantly orange legs help to distinguish this species. There on no black markings on the hind legs of this species. It is generally found in grassy places such as meadows, coastal grazing marsh, large gardens and woodland rides, and is frequently associated with dry grassland on chalk and limestone. The larvae have been found under turf and stones, and in Lasius nests, where it was once claimed they were fed by worker ants. In fact, it is more likely that they feed on ant-attended root aphids. This is much the less frequent of the two main Xanthogramma species, and whilst widely scattered over the southern half of Britain north to Lancashire, it remains rather scarce. The majority of records are from downland in southern England. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is generally found in grassy places such as meadows, coastal grazing marsh, large gardens and woodland rides, and is frequently associated with dry grassland on chalk and limestone.
Seasonal Activity
April to July with a peak in May.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae have been found under turf and stones, and in Lasius nests, where it was once claimed they were fed by worker ants. In fact, it is more likely that they feed on ant-attended root aphids.
Additional species information
Recorded status
This is much the less frequent of the two main Xanthogramma species, and whilst widely scattered over the southern half of Britain north to Lancashire, it remains rather scarce. The majority of records are from downland in southern England.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Xanthogramma citrofasciatum. 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 Xanthogramma citrofasciatum (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Xanthogramma citrofasciatum
What is Xanthogramma citrofasciatum?
Xanthogramma citrofasciatum is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Xanthogramma citrofasciatum?
6.5 to 10.5 mm. This species is black with lemon markings. It is similar to the more common Xanthogramma pedissequum but the sharply defined narrow triangular marking on T2 and the predominantly orange legs help to distinguish this species. There on no black markings on the hind legs of this species.
Where is Xanthogramma citrofasciatum found?
Habitat: It is generally found in grassy places such as meadows, coastal grazing marsh, large gardens and woodland rides, and is frequently associated with dry grassland on chalk and limestone.
When is Xanthogramma citrofasciatum active?
Xanthogramma citrofasciatum: seasonal activity - April to July with a peak in May..
What is the life cycle of a Xanthogramma citrofasciatum?
The larvae have been found under turf and stones, and in Lasius nests, where it was once claimed they were fed by worker ants. In fact, it is more likely that they feed on ant-attended root aphids.