Xylota segnis
This record describes Xylota segnis (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
The broad orange belt across the abdomen of this species is distinctive, but not always obvious under the wings when at rest.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Woods, hedgerows and even gardens.
Geographic Range
holarctic; in NA, se. Canada south to VA
Seasonal Activity
It can be found from April to November, peaking in June and July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It breeds in rotting dead wood but also in wet sawdust.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is a reasonably common hoverfly throughout Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Xylota segnis. 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 Xylota segnis (10)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by v belov , Robert H. Biagi
Frequently Asked Questions About Xylota segnis
What is Xylota segnis?
Xylota segnis is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Xylota segnis?
The broad orange belt across the abdomen of this species is distinctive, but not always obvious under the wings when at rest.
Where is Xylota segnis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Woods, hedgerows and even gardens. |
| Range | holarctic; in NA, se. Canada south to VA |
When is Xylota segnis active?
Xylota segnis: seasonal activity - It can be found from April to November, peaking in June and July..
What is the life cycle of a Xylota segnis?
It breeds in rotting dead wood but also in wet sawdust.