Cyrtopogon alleni
Back, 1909
Showy Bandit
Cyrtopogon alleni is a of robber fly in the Asilidae, described by Back in 1909. It is one of numerous species within the diverse Cyrtopogon, which comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies found primarily in North America. The species has been documented through citizen science observations and appears to be an active aerial .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cyrtopogon alleni: //ˌsɜːrtəˈpoʊɡɒn ˈælɪnaɪ//
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Identification
Members of the Cyrtopogon can be distinguished from other Asilidae by their relatively small size, slender body form, and characteristic wing venation with a distinct bend in the fourth . Specific identification of C. alleni requires examination of male terminalia and other subtle morphological features; the name honors an individual with the surname Allen.
Distribution
North America; specific range details are poorly documented beyond occurrence records.
Diet
Predatory on other small flying insects, as is characteristic of the Asilidae.
Behavior
Aerial that perches on vegetation to ambush passing prey.
Ecological Role
in terrestrial , contributing to regulation of small insect .
Similar Taxa
- Cyrtopogon willistoniAnother Cyrtopogon found in western North America, distinguished by subtle differences in male genitalia and facial markings.
- Other Cyrtopogon speciesMany in this are morphologically similar and require careful examination of genitalic structures for definitive identification.