Cryptochetum

Rondani, 1875

Cryptochetum is a of in the , containing more than 30 described . These flies are specialized of (), with at least one species, C. jorgepastori, documented as emerging from on palms. The genus has been recorded across multiple regions, including a first record from Jordan in 2022.

Cryptochetum iceryae by S.E. Thorpe. Used under a Public domain license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Cryptochetum: //kɹɪptoʊˈkɛtəm//

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Distribution

Documented from Jordan (first record of C. jorgepastori, 2022); broader distribution includes regions where occur on palms and other plants.

Host Associations

  • Pseudaspidoproctus hyphaeniacus - Giant date palm ; for C. jorgepastori

Ecological Role

of (); has been observed emerging from . Potential agent for pest scale insects, though formal evaluation for has been suggested as needed.

Human Relevance

At least one (C. jorgepastori) has been proposed for evaluation in programs targeting pests of palms.

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Sources and further reading