Zophomyia temula
This record describes Zophomyia temula (species). Recorded family: Tachinidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
8-10.5 mm. Jet black and glossy but with yellow wing bases. Legs all black. The eyes are bare. Wing cell R4+5 is narrowly open at the wing margin. Tachina grossa is much larger and more stocky. Mesembrina meridiana (Noon Fly) lacks the bristles. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Tachinidae
- Genus
- Zophomyia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A wide variety of habitats.
Seasonal Activity
May - August
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The host is unknown.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the south.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Zophomyia temula. 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 Zophomyia temula (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Zophomyia temula
What is Zophomyia temula?
Zophomyia temula is a species in the family Tachinidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Zophomyia temula found?
Habitat: A wide variety of habitats.
When is Zophomyia temula active?
Zophomyia temula: seasonal activity - May - August.
What is the life cycle of a Zophomyia temula?
The host is unknown.