Nemomydas melanopogon

Steyskal, 1956

Nemomydas melanopogon is a of mydas fly in the Mydidae, a group of large, predatory flies. It is to Florida scrub , a rare and threatened type. The species was described by Steyskal in 1956. Like other mydas flies, it likely has a long larval development period in sandy soils.

Nemomydas melanopogon by Arturo Santos. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Nemomydas melanopogon: /nɛmoʊˈmʌɪdəs ˌmɛlɐnəˈpoʊɡɒn/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

As a member of Nemomydas, this can be distinguished from other mydas fly by wing venation and genitalic characters. Specific identification requires examination of male terminalia. The specific epithet 'melanopogon' refers to dark facial hair. Distinguishing N. melanopogon from other Nemomydas species requires knowledge of the genus.

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Habitat

Florida scrub, a xeric shrubland characterized by well-drained sandy soils, scattered oaks, and vegetation. This is fire-maintained and occurs on ancient sand ridges in peninsular Florida.

Distribution

to Florida, United States. Restricted to Florida scrub in the peninsula.

Human Relevance

The has no documented direct economic importance. Its restricted distribution in threatened Florida scrub makes it of potential conservation interest as an .

Similar Taxa

  • Other Nemomydas speciesCongeneric share general body plan and require dissection of male genitalia for reliable identification
  • Other Mydidae generaFlorida has multiple mydas fly ; Nemomydas is distinguished by wing venation patterns and body proportions

More Details

Conservation context

Florida scrub is one of the most endangered types in North America, with over 85% lost to development and agriculture. scrub like N. melanopogon ongoing fragmentation.

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Sources and further reading