Condylostylus comatus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Superfamily: Empidoidea
Family: Dolichopodidae
Subfamily: Sciapodinae
Genus: Condylostylus
Species: comatus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Condylostylus comatus: /ˌkɒn.dɨ.loʊˈstɪ.ləs koʊˈmɑː.təs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Condylostylus comatus 209597239 by skitterbug. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Condylostylus comatus 406144930 by Matthew Lindsey. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Condylostylus comatus 406144909 by Matthew Lindsey. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Condylostylus comatus 262591992 by Nell Cant. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Condylostylus comatus 209597243 by skitterbug. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Condylostylus comatus 406144942 by Matthew Lindsey. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Condylostylus comatus is a species of fly in the family Dolichopodidae, distinguished by certain morphological features in males. It is primarily found in the Eastern USA and is part of a diverse genus with many species across the Neotropical realm.

Physical Characteristics

Males of C. comatus have a row of hairs on the mid metatarsus and pale genital appendages. Females are indistinguishable from one another.

Identification Tips

To identify C. comatus, look for the male's row of hairs on the mid metatarsus and the pale genital appendages, as these features differentiate it from the similar species C. crinitus.

Habitat

Found predominantly in the Eastern USA, specifically in various habitats suitable for flies in the family Dolichopodidae.

Distribution

Eastern USA. There is also a significantly high diversity in the Neotropical realm where 70% of the species occur.

Diet

Carnivorous, likely preying on smaller insects.

Life Cycle

Details of the complete life cycle are not provided.

Reproduction

Reproductive details are not specified, but generally, the family Dolichopodidae reproduces via mating, with females laying eggs in suitable environments.

Predators

Specific predators are not documented for C. comatus.

Ecosystem Role

As a predator of small insects, it plays a role in controlling pest populations.

Evolution

C. comatus is part of the genus Condylostylus, which is the second largest in the subfamily Sciapodinae, with more than 250 species included.

Similar Taxa

Condylostylus crinitus

Misconceptions

There may be confusion between C. comatus and similar species, particularly C. crinitus, due to overlapping distribution and appearance.