Platypalpus

Platypalpus

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Platypalpus: /ˌplætɪˈpælpəs/

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

Images

Flat-footed Platypalpus (34013932414) by Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Flat-footed Platypalpus (31595268222) by Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Flat-footed Platypalpus (31626232641) by Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Flat-footed Platypalpus (34727275715) by Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Flat-footed Platypalpus (34013932644) by Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Flat-footed Platypalpus (31742323465) by Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Summary

Platypalpus is a genus of hybotid flies with over 580 described species worldwide, characterized by traits like swollen middle femur and variable coloration. They are often difficult to identify due to closely related species.

Physical Characteristics

Characters include swollen middle femur; most species have yellow legs and a dark thorax.

Identification Tips

Species of Platypalpus are considered difficult to identify. Some species with yellow thorax or dark legs are distinctive. Identification may require shots from both top and side to see enough features.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution, but best represented in Europe; over 100 species in North America, some undescribed, with about 30-35 species in the Eastern USA.

Tags

  • Diptera
  • Empidoidea
  • Hybotidae
  • Platypalpus
  • Insecta