[4] The picture-wing markings in this and other closely related species are located in a stripe along the center and at the apex of the wing.

[3] It is distinguished from closely related species by a flattened front tarsal segment with a dense clump of hair.

These flies are predominantly yellow, with some red and brown coloration on the thorax.

[1] Drosophila tarphytrichia is known to breed in the rotting stems and branches of pāpala plants (Charpentiera).

[1] Threats to the conservation of D. tarphytrichia include loss-of-habitat, in part due to invasive pigs and goats, as well as introduced predators such as big-headed ants and yellow crazy ants.