Cyrtopogon swezeyi
Wilcox & Martin, 1936
Cyrtopogon swezeyi is a of robber fly in the Asilidae, described by Wilcox and Martin in 1936. The Cyrtopogon comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies characterized by their distinctive bearded and ambush hunting . Species within this genus are typically associated with open where they perch on vegetation to capture flying insect prey.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cyrtopogon swezeyi: //ˌsɪrtəˈpoʊɡɒn ˈswɛzeɪaɪ//
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Identification
Members of the Cyrtopogon can be distinguished from other robber fly genera by their facial mystax (beard of bristles) that is typically well-developed, and their generally slender body form compared to the more robust Laphria and other large asilid genera. Specific identification of C. swezeyi requires examination of genitalic structures and comparison with type material; the was described from Hawaiian specimens.
Distribution
Hawaii (type locality). The was described from Hawaiian material, and its distribution appears restricted to the Hawaiian archipelago based on available records.
Ecological Role
As a member of the Asilidae, C. swezeyi functions as an aerial in its , contributing to the regulation of flying insect .
Similar Taxa
- Cyrtopogon willistoniAnother North American Cyrtopogon ; C. swezeyi is distinguished by its Hawaiian distribution and was described from distinctly insular material, whereas C. willistoni occurs in continental North America including Colorado.
- Other Cyrtopogon speciesMany Cyrtopogon share general morphological features including the characteristic mystax and slender build; precise identification relies on male genitalic examination and geographic provenance.