Taracticus octopunctatus
(Say, 1823)
Eight-spotted Rainbow Robber
Taracticus octopunctatus is a of robber fly in the Asilidae. It is commonly known as the Eight-spotted Rainbow Robber. The species was first described by Thomas Say in 1823, originally placed in the Dioctria as Dioctria 8-punctata. It is found in the eastern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Taracticus octopunctatus: //təˈræktɪkəs ˌɒktoʊpʌŋkˈteɪtəs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The epithet "octopunctatus" refers to eight spots or punctures, though specific pattern details for this species are not well documented in available sources. As a member of the Taracticus, it can be distinguished from other robber fly genera by characteristics typical of that group, though precise diagnostic features for this species are not established in the provided sources.
Images
Distribution
Eastern United States. Specific state records include Vermont.
Diet
As with all robber flies (Asilidae), this is predatory on other insects.
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described as Dioctria 8-punctata by Say in 1823, later transferred to the Taracticus.
Observation Data
The has 429 observations recorded on iNaturalist as of the source date.