Aspistes
Meigen, 1818
Aspistes is a of minute black scavenger flies (Diptera: Scatopsidae) within the Aspistinae. The genus occurs in the Palaearctic region, with documented from Finland including the recently described A. helleni. Taxonomic revisions have focused on morphological distinctions between species, particularly male and female genitalia characteristics.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Aspistes: //æsˈpaɪstiːz//
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Identification
Identification relies on examination of genitalia structures; a key to Palaearctic is available. Males and females differ in terminalia , with female characters described for A. freyi. Minute body size and dark coloration are typical of the Scatopsidae.
Distribution
Palaearctic region. Documented from Finland, with collection records from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
Similar Taxa
- Other Scatopsidae generaAspistinae placement distinguishes Aspistes from in other scatopsid subfamilies; precise distinguishing characters require microscopic examination of genitalia.
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was established by Meigen in 1818. Recent revisionary work (Entomologica Fennica) added A. helleni from Finland and clarified female of A. freyi.