Apiocera chrysolasia
Cazier, 1982
Apiocera chrysolasia is a of flower-loving fly described by Cazier in 1982. It belongs to the Apioceridae, a small group of brachyceran flies commonly known as apiocerid flies or sometimes 'flower-loving flies' due to their association with floral resources. The species epithet 'chrysolasia' derives from Greek roots suggesting golden or woolly appearance. Like other members of its family, it is likely associated with arid or semi-arid environments in western North America, though specific details remain poorly documented.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Apiocera chrysolasia: /ˌæpiˈoʊsərə ˌkrɪsoʊˈleɪʒə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
Known from the southwestern United States; type locality and precise range require verification from original description. The Apiocera is primarily distributed in western North America with highest diversity in arid regions.
More Details
Taxonomic note
Apioceridae is a small of approximately 150 described , historically placed near Asilidae (robber flies) though their exact phylogenetic position within has been debated. The family is characterized by elongated mouthparts and flower-visiting in . Apiocera chrysolasia is one of numerous species described by entomologist Mont A. Cazier, who extensively revised the family in the late 20th century.
Data availability
This is represented by minimal occurrence data in public repositories. The single iNaturalist observation and limited GBIF records suggest it is either genuinely rare, undercollected, or restricted to specific that are infrequently surveyed. Original description in Cazier 1982 remains the primary source for morphological details.