Poecilanthrax nigripennis
(Cole, 1917)
Poecilanthrax nigripennis is a of bee fly ( Bombyliidae) described by Cole in 1917. The Poecilanthrax is strictly North American, with greatest in the Great Basin region. Members of this genus are whose larvae develop inside caterpillars, primarily of noctuid (cutworms and armyworms).
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Poecilanthrax nigripennis: /ˌpiːsɪˈlænθræks ˌnɪɡrɪˈpɛnɪs/
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Identification
The specific epithet "nigripennis" (black-winged) suggests dark wing coloration. of Poecilanthrax are generally distinguished by abdominal color patterns, wing venation coloration, and tomentose (woolly hair) banding patterns. Definitive identification of P. nigripennis requires comparison with type material or examination.
Habitat
preferences for this specific are not documented. Related species in the are found in open, dry habitats including sand scrub, prairies, and desert grasslands, often associated with areas where noctuid caterpillars are abundant.
Distribution
Distribution records for this are sparse. The Poecilanthrax ranges from Canada through the United States, with greatest diversity in the Great Basin, and extends south into Central America. The specific distribution of P. nigripennis is not well documented in available sources.
Diet
Larvae are of noctuid caterpillars (cutworms and armyworms). feeding habits are not documented for this , though related species in the feed on nectar from flowers.
Host Associations
- Noctuidae - Larval ; specific host not documented for P. nigripennis
Life Cycle
As with other Poecilanthrax , the likely involves a single per year () in natural . are deposited near caterpillars; larvae enter and consume the host from within. occurs in the soil.
Ecological Role
As a of noctuid caterpillars, this contributes to natural of . Some Poecilanthrax species have been documented as hyperparasitoids (parasitoids of other parasitoids), though this has not been reported for P. nigripennis specifically.
Similar Taxa
- Poecilanthrax luciferSimilar size and general appearance; distinguished by abdominal pattern and wing venation coloration. P. lucifer has conspicuous black and yellow tomentose crossbands on and yellow or tan bases on larger wing .
- Other Poecilanthrax species members share general body plan and lifestyle; -level identification requires careful examination of abdominal banding patterns and wing coloration.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The name Poecilanthrax derives from Greek roots: "poecilo-" meaning variegated or spotted, and "anthrax" meaning charcoal (referring to the typically dark coloration of ), not the anthrax.