Sphyracephala subbifasciata
Fitch, 1855
Sphyracephala subbifasciata is a Nearctic of stalk-eyed fly in the Diopsidae. It was described by Fitch in 1855, long treated as a junior synonym of S. brevicornis, but reinstated as a valid species by Feijen in 1989. It belongs to the S. brevicornis species group and exhibits in span. As a true Holarctic Sphyracephala, it hibernates and displays characteristic seasonal clustering .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sphyracephala subbifasciata: //sfaɪ̯ˈræ.səˌfɑː.lə ˌsʌb.baɪ̯.fæs.iˈɑː.tə//
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Identification
Distinguished from by: vague or absent wing markings; span/body ratio of 0.52–0.67; in eye span (D = 0.33–0.39); scutellar spine/scutellum ratio of 0.41–0.44; and seta/scutellar spine ratio of 5.4–6.1. Additional diagnostic features include basiliform , tergite 1 with semicircular groove, female sternite 8 with two small on the meson, presence of sclerotised ring on vagina wall, and surstylus without microtrichia.
Distribution
North America. Northern distributional limit between 45°30'N and 48°20'N.
Seasonality
Active in spring and autumn; hibernates during winter months.
Life Cycle
Hibernates during winter. Clustering observed in spring and autumn.
Behavior
Exhibits characteristic clustering during spring and autumn seasons. Hibernates to survive winter conditions.
Similar Taxa
- Sphyracephala brevicornisHistorically confused with S. subbifasciata; distinguished by wing markings, span ratios, and genitalic as detailed in group .
- Sphyracephala nigrimanaOverlaps in general ; separated by specific metric ratios and structural characters in identification keys.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Long considered a junior synonym of S. brevicornis until reinstated as a valid by Feijen in 1989 based on morphological distinctions.
Species group membership
Member of the S. brevicornis group within Sphyracephala, characterized by specific morphological synapomorphies including basiliform and particular genitalic structures.