Xanthogramma flavipes
This record describes Xanthogramma flavipes (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
face, margins on thorax, and transverse bands on abdomen all bright yellow; female may have brown bands between the yellow abdominal bands
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
fields and wood edges
Geographic Range
se. Canada & ne. US (QC-NC to MN-NE)
Seasonal Activity
May-Sep in ON
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Xanthogramma flavipes (Loew 1863)
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Xanthogramma flavipes. 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 flavipes (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Robin McLeod; Additional contributions by cotinis , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Xanthogramma flavipes
What is Xanthogramma flavipes?
Xanthogramma flavipes is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Xanthogramma flavipes?
7-12 mm
How do you identify Xanthogramma flavipes?
face, margins on thorax, and transverse bands on abdomen all bright yellow; female may have brown bands between the yellow abdominal bands
Where is Xanthogramma flavipes found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | fields and wood edges |
| Range | se. Canada & ne. US (QC-NC to MN-NE) |
When is Xanthogramma flavipes active?
Xanthogramma flavipes: seasonal activity - May-Sep in ON.