Messiasia

Andretta, 1951

Species Guides

Messiasia pertenuis

Messiasia is a of mydas flies ( Mydidae) established by Andretta in 1951. The genus contains 16 described distributed primarily in the Americas, with species known from the western United States, Central America, and South America. These flies are among the largest in Diptera and are characterized by their elongate bodies and -like appearance.

Messiasia zikani by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Messiasia lanei by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Messiasia: /mɛˈsaɪsiə/

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

Images

Distribution

Western United States (California), Central America, and South America (including Brazil, Colombia, and other regions). Specific type localities include California, Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), and Amazonian regions.

Similar Taxa

MydasBoth are large mydid with -mimicking appearance; Mydas is primarily Nearctic while Messiasia extends into the Neotropics
NemomydasAnother mydid with overlapping distribution; separation requires examination of wing venation and male genitalia

More Details

Etymology

The name honors the Brazilian entomologist Messias Carrera, who worked extensively on Diptera.

Taxonomic History

Originally described by Andretta in 1951 with Messiasia notospila as the type . Several species were later transferred from other , including some originally described in Mydas and Rhaphiomidas.