Acrocera

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Family: Acroceridae
Genus: Acrocera

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Acrocera: /ˌækrəˈsɪərə/

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Summary

Acrocera is a genus of small-headed flies belonging to the family Acroceridae, characterized by their unique physical traits and large number of recognized species.

Physical Characteristics

Antennae attached near the top of the head, eyes that cover much of the head and lack hair, and vestigial or absent mouthparts. Legs are typically yellowish with darkened femora, and the abdomen is large and balloon-like with black and yellow-orange markings which may be reduced or absent. Males have a blunt-ended abdomen while females' abdomens taper into an ovipositor.

Identification Tips

Look for small-headed flies with large, prominent eyes and distinctive abdominal coloration.

Distribution

16 species identified in the area, approximately 60 species total worldwide.

Similar Taxa

Paracrocera Mik 1886

Misconceptions

The fossil species Acrocera hirsuta Scudder, 1877 is often confused with acrocerids but is more closely related to Mythicomyiidae.