Forcipomyia macswaini
Wirth, 1952
Forcipomyia macswaini is a of biting midge in the Ceratopogonidae, described by Wirth in 1952. The Forcipomyia is notable for containing species that serve as specialized , including the chocolate responsible for pollinating cacao trees. Members of this genus are typically minute flies, often measuring only 1-3 mm in body length. The specific epithet honors entomologist J.W. MacSwain, who made significant contributions to the study of Ceratopogonidae.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Forcipomyia macswaini: //fɔrˌsɪpəˈmaɪə mækˈsweɪni//
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More Details
Nomenclature
The specific epithet 'macswaini' honors J.W. MacSwain, an entomologist who contributed to the and understanding of Ceratopogonidae. The was formally described by W.W. Wirth in 1952.
Taxonomic Status Note
Catalogue of Life lists this name as a synonym, while GBIF treats it as accepted. This discrepancy suggests taxonomic revision may be needed or that the has been synonymized with another Forcipomyia species in some treatments.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- Catalogue of Life
- If You Like Chocolate, Thank the Midges! | Bug Squad
- Meloidae Holdings | Entomology Research Museum
- Bug Eric: Compost Insects
- A Crossidius hirtipes subspecies blend zone… | Beetles In The Bush
- Bug Eric: Fly Day Friday: Biting Midges, No-See-Ums, Punkies