Microcercis
Beschovski, 1981
Species Guides
5Microcercis is a of small flies in the Chloropidae, a group commonly known as frit flies or grass flies. The genus was established by Beschovski in 1981. It contains multiple described distributed across Europe and the Nearctic region. Most species were described relatively recently, with several named in 2024.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Microcercis: /ˌmaɪkroʊˈsɜːrsɪs/
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Identification
Microcercis can be distinguished from other Chloropidae by genitalic characters, particularly features of the male and surstyli. The name refers to the small or reduced cerci characteristic of these flies. Specific identification requires examination of terminalia and is not reliably accomplished from external features alone.
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Distribution
Recorded from Europe (Denmark, Norway, Sweden) and the Nearctic region. Distribution records suggest a primarily Holarctic range, though sampling may be incomplete in other regions.
Similar Taxa
- OscinellaBoth are small chloropid flies in the Oscinellinae; Microcercis is distinguished by reduced and specific genitalic
- ElachipteraSimilar size and general appearance; Microcercis differs in male genitalic structure and chaetotaxy
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was described by Beschovski in 1981, though some sources cite 1978. The authorship and date require verification against the original publication.
Species diversity
At least 10 are currently recognized, with a notable increase in described diversity in 2024. This pattern suggests either recent taxonomic revision or previously unrecognized species being documented.