Cyrtopogon thompsoni
Cole, 1921
Cyrtopogon thompsoni is a of in the , first described by Cole in 1921. Members of the Cyrtopogon are predatory that typically inhabit open, sunny environments. As with other Asilidae, this species likely hunts other in . The species name honors an individual with the surname Thompson.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cyrtopogon thompsoni: //ˌsɜrtəˈpoʊɡən ˈtɒmp.səˌnaɪ//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Cyrtopogon are small to -sized with a characteristic bristly appearance. They can be distinguished from similar by their relatively slender body form, reduced mystax (facial bristles), and specific patterns. Definitive identification of C. thompsoni requires examination of male and comparison with .
Habitat
Based on the , likely occupies open, sunny including grasslands, meadows, and forest edges. The related C. willistoni was documented in foothills and mountain scrub oak habitat in Colorado Springs, suggesting similar montane environments for .
Distribution
Exact distribution records for this are sparse. The Cyrtopogon is broadly distributed across North America, with highest diversity in western regions. locality and precise range boundaries for C. thompsoni require verification from primary literature.
Behavior
As with other Cyrtopogon , likely exhibits perching on bare ground or low vegetation, from which it launches aerial attacks on . Males may engage in territorial defense and . One related species (C. willistoni) was observed in a mating pair, suggesting similar reproductive behavior.
Ecological Role
As a predatory , likely functions as an important of other small , contributing to of potential . May serve as for larger including birds and other predatory .
Human Relevance
No direct human relevance documented. Like other , may provide incidental services through on pest , but no specific economic or medical significance has been recorded for this .
Similar Taxa
- Cyrtopogon willistoniCongeneric found in similar Colorado ; distinguished by specific morphological details of male terminalia and possibly coloration patterns
- Other Asilidae genera (e.g., Efferia, Promachus)Similar predatory and general body plan; Cyrtopogon distinguished by smaller size, reduced mystax, and characteristic with specific patterns
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The epithet 'thompsoni' is formed as a Latin genitive singular honoring someone with the surname Thompson. The original description by Cole (1921) should be consulted for precise morphological and locality information.
Data Deficiency
This has zero observations in iNaturalist as of source date, indicating it is either genuinely rare, undercollected, or identification to species level requires expertise that limits citizen science records.