Ectrepesthoneura laffooni, is a species found in the Diptera order under the suborder Nematocera.  Nematocerids are slender insects with slender legs and segmented antannae that are longer than their head, which can be distinguished from other flies by their humped thorax.  There are over 120,000 species of Diptera or “true flies.”  Most of their life span is spent as larvae and pupae in organic matter or soil.  Adults consume a small abdoment of water of flower nectar only.  The larvae feeds on plant roots, fungi, and grass clippings.

Ectrepesthoneura laffooni is about 2 to 5 mm long.  Their wings are clear color and it's body is a brown and yellow color.  Like all flies, Ectrepesthoneura Laffooni, has two wings, large compound eyes, and mouth parts that are adapted for sucking.  In males the large, black compound eyes are touching, while in females, the eyes are separated by a strip in the middle.  The eyes do not pick up images but rather light changes and sudden movements.  They have a soft mouthpart called a proboscis, a large sponge like organ used to lap up blood.  Females lay tiny eggs in  most organic debris.  They develop through four stages:  Eggs, larvae, pupa, and adult

Ectrepesthoneura Laffooni prefers humid or woodland areas.  The population is increasing more and more because they reproduce a lot. 

Ectrepesthoneura Laffooni feeds on nectar and pollen, which is also their diet.  They also prey on other insects.  Flies destroy crops: they live as parasites.  Their predators are Robebeetles and groundbeetles. 

Despite their harmfulness to humans, flies play important roles in the balance of nature.  They hasten decomposition of animal, carcasses, manure, and vegetable matter. 

Author: Elena P.
Published: 02/2013

Sources: Funk and Wagnells New Encyclopedia Vol 0, pages 297-298

Photo Credit: http://bugguide.net/node/view/14507