Eudicrana
Loew, 1869
Species Guides
1Eudicrana is a of fungus gnats (Diptera: Mycetophilidae: Sciophilinae) comprising approximately 13 described . The genus is distinguished by the absence of a mid ocellus, lateral ocelli positioned adjacent to the margins, and wing venation where R4 forms an elongated rectangular . Four new species were recently described from high Andean in Colombia, representing the first records from the extreme northern range of the Andes. Natural history and remain poorly documented for most species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eudicrana: /ˌjuː.dɪˈkræ.nə/
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Identification
The is characterized by three diagnostic morphological features: lack of a mid ocellus, lateral ocelli touching the margins, and R4 forming an elongated rectangular in the wing venation. -level identification relies on wing maculation patterns, anepisternum setation, and male terminalia . A key to the Colombian species has been published.
Habitat
High Andean including paramos and high Andean forest. Colombian occupy elevations of 1750–3660 m a.s.l. in pristine ecosystems.
Distribution
Documented from Colombia (Eastern and Central Cordilleras) at 1750–3660 m elevation, with additional records from Norway and Sweden (GBIF). Colombian type localities include Chingaza National Natural Park, San José de la Montaña (paramo El Congo), and Envigado.
Similar Taxa
- Other Sciophilinae generaMay share general fungus gnat but differ in the diagnostic combination of ocellar arrangement and R4 shape that defines Eudicrana.
More Details
Collection methodology
Colombian specimens were collected using and sweeping nets in pristine high-elevation .
Taxonomic history
Four new (E. silvaandina, E. chingaza, E. maculata, and E. merizaldei) were described in 2020 from Colombia, expanding the known diversity and geographic range of the .