Dilophus strigilatus
McAtee, 1922
March fly
Dilophus strigilatus is a of march fly in the Bibionidae, first described by McAtee in 1922. Like other Dilophus species, it belongs to a distinguished from the related Bibio by having a ring of shorter teeth on the fore tibiae rather than long spurs. emerge in spring and are typically smaller and less robust than Bibio species, often with reddish coloration.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dilophus strigilatus: /daɪˈloʊfəs strɪˈdʒɪlətəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from the related Bibio by the presence of a ring of shorter teeth on the fore tibiae instead of long, downcurved spurs. Typically smaller and less robust than Bibio , with frequent reddish coloration. Males recognized by (eyes meeting dorsally); females by proportionally small .
Appearance
are generally smaller and less robust than Bibio . The body is frequently reddish in color rather than black. Males have large, spherical that meet at the top of the (). Females have relatively small heads compared to their body size. Fore tibiae bear a ring of shorter teeth rather than the long, downcurved spurs characteristic of Bibio.
Distribution
North America (documented in iNaturalist observations).
Seasonality
emerge in spring (observed in mid-May in Colorado for related Dilophus ).
Life Cycle
Larval stages feed on decaying organic matter in soil. Females use foreleg structures to dig into soil to deposit in masses. Mature larvae likely overwinter, pupating in early spring.
Behavior
Males gather in swarms to attract females for mating. Females select mates from swarming males.
Ecological Role
Larvae act as decomposers, processing decaying plant material in soils. Occasional root feeding may occur.
Similar Taxa
- BibioShares Bibionidae but distinguished by long, downcurved spurs on fore tibiae rather than ring of short teeth; generally larger and more robust, typically black rather than reddish.
- PleciaRelated in same ; fly in prolonged copula for days and are known nuisance pests in southeastern US, unlike Dilophus.
More Details
Genus characteristics
The Dilophus contains 15-18 in North America north of Mexico. Many former species were synonymized based on variable characters like leg color and hair ; reliable identification often requires examination of male genitalia.