Efferia okanagana

Cannings, 2012

Okanagan Hammertail

Efferia okanagana is a of robber fly ( Asilidae) described in 2012 from the grasslands of southern British Columbia, Canada. It belongs to the E. arida species group and is most closely related to E. arida and E. pinali. The species has a restricted distribution centered on the Okanagan Valley and is considered potentially at risk by COSEWIC.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Efferia okanagana: /ɛˈfɛriə ˌoʊkəˈnæɡənə/

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Identification

Efferia okanagana can be distinguished from using modified keys to Efferia ; the male and female genitalia are described and illustrated in the original description. It is most similar to E. arida and E. pinali, with E. coulei being the closest sympatric relative. shows approximately 7.0% divergence from E. coulei.

Habitat

Low-elevation grasslands dominated by bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata), especially where soil is gravelly.

Distribution

Southern interior of British Columbia, Canada, primarily the Okanagan Valley.

Seasonality

active in May and June.

Human Relevance

Considered a potential at risk by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC).

Similar Taxa

Efferia couleiClosest sympatric relative; distinguished by approximately 7.0% divergence in oxidase I gene sequences
Efferia aridaMost closely related within E. arida species group; distribution
Efferia pinaliMost closely related within E. arida species group; distribution

More Details

Taxonomic placement

description includes detailed illustrations of male and female genitalia and a modified key to Efferia species to enable identification.

Conservation concern

Restricted to specific grassland in a limited geographic area, contributing to its potential at-risk status.