Lasiopteridi
Lasiopteridi
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Diptera
- Infraorder: Bibionomorpha
- Superfamily: Sciaroidea
- Family: Cecidomyiidae
- Subfamily: Cecidomyiinae
- Supertribe: Lasiopteridi
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lasiopteridi: //la.siˌɒp.təˈrɪ.dʒi//
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Summary
The Lasiopteridi is a supertribe of gall midges (Cecidomyiidae) characterized by their diverse tribes and unique morphological features that facilitate their life as gall makers on plants. They exhibit remarkable adaptations in antenna structure and reproductive traits related to their ecology.
Physical Characteristics
Most have an irregular number of flagellomeres, rarely numbering exactly 12. Male flagellomeres consist of a node and a longer distal neck compared to female antennae. The cerci of the ovipositor are usually fused into one caudal lobe. The male aedeagus is supported on each side by gonocoxal lobes. The larvae exhibit mostly setose ventral papillae.
Identification Tips
Look for gall structures associated with plants, as these are indicative of gall makers. Male and female antennae differ in structure, with males having specific flagellomere characteristics.
Habitat
Various terrestrial habitats where host plants for gall formation are present.
Distribution
Widespread; specific distribution may vary by tribe and genus.
Diet
Primarily gall makers; a few species are fungus feeders.
Life Cycle
Life cycle includes egg, larval, and adult stages, with larvae typically living in galls.
Reproduction
Reproduction involves the formation of galls on plants by the larvae, which is where they develop before maturing into adults.
Predators
Various natural predators including other insects, birds, and parasitoids.
Ecosystem Role
As gall makers, they play a significant role in the ecology of their host plants and can influence plant health.
Economic Impact
Potential impact on agriculture due to their role in plant gall formation, which can affect crop yields.
Collecting Methods
- Netting adult flies
- Collecting galls from host plants
Preservation Methods
- Pinning specimens
- Using ethanol for larvae
Evolution
Part of the evolutionary lineage within the family Cecidomyiidae that specializes in gall formation on plants.
Similar Taxa
- Cecidomyiidae
- Gall midges
- Gall gnats
Misconceptions
Often confused with other types of flies; not all species cause significant damage to plants.
Tags
- Lasiopteridi
- Cecidomyiidae
- Gall midges
- Diptera
- Insecta