Dilophus tingi
(Hardy, 1942)
March fly
Dilophus tingi is a of in the . Like other members of the Dilophus, it is likely smaller and less than the related genus Bibio, and frequently exhibits reddish coloration. March flies are spring-emerging dipterans known for their swarming and -laying habits.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dilophus tingi: //ˌdaɪˈloʊfəs ˈtɪŋɡi//
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Identification
Members of Dilophus can be distinguished from the similar Bibio by the presence of a ring of shorter on the legs rather than long, downcurved . Dilophus are generally smaller and less than Bibio, and often display reddish coloration rather than black. is pronounced: males have large, spherical that meet at the top of the (), while females have proportionally tiny heads.
Seasonality
typically emerge in spring, with activity peaking in April and May in North America. The refers to their seasonal appearance rather than a literal March .
Life Cycle
Females use their modified legs to dig into soil several inches deep, where they in masses of 200-300. Larval stages feed on decaying matter in rich soils, manure, compost, and roots of grasses and herbs. Mature likely overwinter, pupating in early spring.
Behavior
are known for forming large mating swarms, with males gathering in that blanket ground and low vegetation. Females are attracted to these swarms for mate selection.
Ecological Role
contribute to soil through consumption of decaying matter. may serve as a food source for during spring events.
Similar Taxa
- BibioSimilar spring-emerging , but distinguished by larger size, more build, black coloration, and presence of long downcurved (rather than rings of short ) on the .
- PleciaRelated containing ',' distinguished by habit of flying in copula for extended periods and principal distribution along Atlantic and Gulf coasts.