Forcipomyia pictoni
Macfie, 1938
Forcipomyia pictoni is a of biting midges in the Ceratopogonidae, described by Macfie in 1938. Like other members of the Forcipomyia, it is a minute fly, typically 1–3 mm in body length. The genus includes species with diverse feeding habits: females of some species bite vertebrates or other insects, while others are non-biting. Several Forcipomyia species are known of cacao (Theobroma cacao), though F. pictoni's specific ecological role remains undocumented.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Forcipomyia pictoni: /fɔːrˌsɪpoʊˈmaɪə ˈpɪktəni/
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Identification
Identification to level requires examination of male genitalia and other microscopic characters. Distinguished from other ceratopogonid by the male and general body form. Separated from similar small flies (Scatopsidae, Sciaridae, Chironomidae) by the combination of long with visible and palps, and wing venation patterns. Specific identification as F. pictoni relies on taxonomic keys and original description.
Distribution
Documented from Brazil, with records from the states of Amazonas (BR-AM), Bahia (BR-BA), Pará (BR-PA), and São Paulo (BR-SP).
Similar Taxa
- Culicoides spp.Other biting midges that bite humans and livestock; distinguished by different antennal structure and wing patterns.
- Leptoconops spp.Biting midges with similar size and habits; separated by morphological details of mouthparts and genitalia.
- Dasyhelea spp.Non-biting ceratopogonid often found in similar ; females lack functional piercing mouthparts.
More Details
Taxonomic Status
Listed as a synonym in Catalogue of Life but accepted in GBIF. This discrepancy reflects ongoing taxonomic revision in the .
Genus Ecology
The Forcipomyia is highly diverse ecologically. Some are the sole of cacao flowers, while others are , , or scavengers. Larval range from moist soil and decaying vegetation to aquatic environments.