Ablautus colei
Wilcox, 1966
Northwestern Prospector
Ablautus colei is a of robber fly ( Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. It belongs to a of small, sand-colored predatory flies found in North America. The species is part of the 'Northwestern Prospector' group within the genus, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented. Like other Ablautus species, it likely exhibits in facial hair coloration and elaborate male .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ablautus colei: /əˈblaʊtəs ˈkəʊli/
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Identification
Ablautus colei can be separated from its Ablautus vanduzeei only by examination of male genitalia. The Ablautus is characterized by small body size (approximately 6-7 mm), sand-colored , and sexually dimorphic facial : males possess bright white facial hairs while females have gold or ochre-colored facial hairs. -level identification requires dissection and comparison of male terminalia.
Distribution
The specific distribution of Ablautus colei is not well documented. The Ablautus occurs in western North America. The 'Northwestern Prospector' suggests affinity for northwestern regions of the continent.
Ecological Role
As a member of the Asilidae, Ablautus colei functions as a of small insects. Based on observations of congeneric , likely prey on insects smaller than themselves, including leafhoppers.
Similar Taxa
- Ablautus vanduzeeiThe only from which A. colei can be reliably distinguished by male genitalia; otherwise morphologically similar
- Ablautus (other species)All Ablautus share small size, sand coloration, and sexually dimorphic facial hair; species boundaries require genitalic examination
More Details
Taxonomic Revision
The Ablautus is currently undergoing revision by Charlotte Herbert Alberts (UC Davis), who has identified A. colei as one of the requiring modern taxonomic treatment.
Etymology
The specific epithet 'colei' honors an individual, though the original description details are not available in the provided sources.