Megaphorus frustrus
(Pritchard, 1935)
Megaphorus frustrus is a of robber fly in the Asilidae, first described by Pritchard in 1935 under the basionym Mallophorina frustra. The Megaphorus belongs to the tribe Apocleini within the Asilinae. Robber flies in this genus are large, powerful known for their robust build and predatory habits. Information specifically documenting M. frustrus is sparse in the provided sources, though the genus is known from western North American arid and semi-arid .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Megaphorus frustrus: //ˈmɛɡəfərəs ˈfrʌstrəs//
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Distribution
Based on -level information from field observations, Megaphorus occur in western North America including Nevada, with records from Lyon County near Wellington Springs. The specific distribution of M. frustrus is not documented in available sources.
Ecological Role
As a member of the Asilidae , this likely functions as an aerial of other insects, contributing to in its .
Similar Taxa
- Microstylum galactodesAnother large robber fly with which Megaphorus species may be confused due to similar size and robust build; however, Microstylum has a mystax confined to the oral margin with stout bristles and distinct wing coloration.
- Microstylum morosumNorth America's largest robber fly, potentially confused with large Megaphorus specimens due to convergent large body size and predatory .
- Efferia group species (including Triorla)Similar robust, hairy robber fly appearance; members of the Efferia group and related like Triorla share the general Asilidae body plan and predatory habits, though they differ in specific morphological details.
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described as Mallophorina frustra by Pritchard in 1935, this was later transferred to the Megaphorus. The genus Megaphorus is classified in the tribe Apocleini, Asilinae.
Observation Records
iNaturalist reports 8 observations for this , indicating it has been documented in the field but remains relatively underreported compared to more conspicuous asilid species.