Aphoebantus conurus
Osten Sacken, 1887
Aphoebantus conurus is a of bee fly in the Bombyliidae, first described by Osten Sacken in 1887. It belongs to the Anthracinae and tribe Aphoebantini. The Aphoebantus includes species that may exhibit mimicry, with some members displaying thoracic markings resembling jumping spider . Field observations indicate this species occurs in juniper woodland in the southwestern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Aphoebantus conurus: /æˈfiːbæntəs koʊˈnʊrəs/
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Identification
Members of the Aphoebantus are small, tapered, fuzzy bee flies approximately 7–10 millimeters in length with delicate wings. Some in this genus display distinctive thoracic markings—four black, polished, hemispherical bumps that resemble the of a jumping spider when viewed from behind. Specific diagnostic features for A. conurus relative to are not documented in available sources.
Habitat
Juniper woodland, as documented from field observations in New Mexico. The broader is associated with prairie and open grassland where flowering plants occur.
Distribution
Documented from the southwestern United States, specifically New Mexico (Mills Rim Campground, Kiowa National Grassland, Harding County). The has broader distribution in western North America.
Similar Taxa
- EpacmusSome authorities consider Epacmus to be a synonym or subset of Aphoebantus rather than a valid ; both share similar and potential spider-mimicry traits
- Aphoebantus spp. within Aphoebantus require detailed examination for -level identification; specific distinguishing characters for A. conurus are not well documented in available literature