Apiocera macswaini
Cazier, 1982
Apiocera macswaini is a of flower-loving flies in the Apioceridae, described by Cazier in 1982. The Apiocera is to western North America, with species typically associated with arid and semi-arid . are known to visit flowers for nectar. Very little specific biological information is available for this particular species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Apiocera macswaini: /ˌæpiˈoʊsɪrə mækˈsweɪnaɪ/
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Habitat
Arid and semi-arid regions of western North America, consistent with the known distribution of the Apiocera.
Distribution
Western North America; precise range boundaries for this are not well documented. The Apiocera is restricted to this region.
Diet
have been observed visiting flowers for nectar; larvae are presumed to be predatory or scavenging in soil, as is typical for the , though this has not been confirmed for this .
Behavior
are and visit flowers. Specific behavioral details for this have not been documented.
Ecological Role
may serve as of flowering plants in arid . The Apioceridae is generally considered to have limited ecological impact due to low abundance.
Similar Taxa
- Apiocera maritimaOverlapping distribution in western North America; distinguished by differences in wing venation and male genitalia.
- Other Apiocera species-level characters including wing venation patterns, body proportions, and male terminalia are used to distinguish ; specific characters for A. macswaini require examination of type material.
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was named in honor of J.W. MacSwain, an entomologist known for his work on Hymenoptera and other insects. The specific epithet 'macswaini' reflects this dedication.
Research needs
Basic biological information including larval , complete distribution, and seasonal activity patterns remain undocumented for this .