Eudioctria monrovia
(Wilcox & Martin, 1941)
Eudioctria monrovia is a of robber fly ( Asilidae, Stenopogoninae) described by Wilcox and Martin in 1941. The Eudioctria comprises some of the smallest North American robber flies, with measuring only 6–8 mm in length. Species in this genus are primarily western in distribution, though a few species extend into eastern North America. Like other robber flies, members of this genus are predatory as adults.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eudioctria monrovia: /ˌjuːdiːˈɒktriə mɒnˈroʊvia/
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Identification
Eudioctria are among the smallest North American robber flies (6–8 mm), superficially resembling Cerotainia (Laphriinae) but distinguished by shorter . Behavioral cues may assist: Eudioctria prefers flat leaves at the top of small shrubs, while Cerotainia perches on twig-ends. Definitive identification of E. monrovia requires examination of facial structures and pollinosity patterns.
Habitat
Based on -level information: prefers flat leaves at the top of small shrubs for perching. Specific requirements for E. monrovia not documented.
Distribution
The Eudioctria is primarily western North American in distribution. Four of 14 Eudioctria (albius, brevis, propinqua, tibialis) occur in eastern states. The specific distribution of E. monrovia is not documented in available sources; the specific epithet "monrovia" may suggest a type locality connection (Monrovia, California is a city in Los Angeles County).
Diet
are predatory on small insects, as is typical for the Asilidae. Specific prey records for E. monrovia are not documented.
Life Cycle
Complete with , larva, pupa, and stages. Larval of Eudioctria is poorly documented; larvae of related Stenopogoninae are generally predatory in soil or decaying organic matter.
Behavior
Perches on flat leaves at the top of small shrubs (-level ). Specific behavioral observations for E. monrovia are not documented.
Ecological Role
function as of small insects. Potential role in regulating of small arthropods in shrubland .
Similar Taxa
- Cerotainia spp.Superficially similar small robber flies, but distinguished by extra-long and different perching (twig-ends vs. flat leaves on shrub tops)
- Other Eudioctria speciesE. monrovia distinguished from by facial gibbosities and pollinosity patterns requiring close examination
More Details
Taxonomic Note
Eudioctria was revised by Adisoemarto and Wood (1975), who recognized 14 Nearctic . The is placed in Stenopogoninae.
Etymology
The specific epithet "monrovia" likely refers to Monrovia, California (Los Angeles County), a common pattern for described by early 20th century American entomologists working in southern California.