Ectecephala
Macquart, 1851
grass flies
Species Guides
2- Ectecephala albistylum(grass fly)
- Ectecephala laticornis
Ectecephala is a of small flies in the Chloropidae, commonly known as grass flies. The genus contains approximately six described , first established by Macquart in 1851. Species within this genus are found in the Nearctic and Neotropical regions.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ectecephala: //ɛk.tɛˈkɛ.fə.la//
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Identification
Members of Ectecephala can be distinguished from other chloropid by features of the and . Ectecephala albistylum has a characteristic white . Ectecephala laticornis and E. sulcifrons share broad antennal bases. Ectecephala sulcata has distinct sulcate (grooved) features on the head. Ectecephala obscura and E. unicolor are darker with reduced patterning.
Images
Distribution
of Ectecephala occur in North America, Central America, and South America. Specific distribution varies by species: Ectecephala albistylum is known from the eastern United States, while E. obscura and E. unicolor have broader ranges in the Americas.
Similar Taxa
- ChloropsBoth are of Chloropidae with similar body plans, but Chlorops often have more pronounced thoracic stripes and different antennal proportions.
- HippelatesAnother chloropid with small size and yellowish coloration, but Hippelates typically has more prominent and different wing venation.
More Details
Species diversity
The contains six described : E. albistylum (1851), E. laticornis (1910), E. obscura (1868), E. sulcata (1941), E. sulcifrons (1910), and E. unicolor (1863).