Nostima
Coquillett, 1900
Species Guides
3Nostima is a of shore flies ( Ephydridae) established by Coquillett in 1900. These are minute flies measuring 0.72–1.72 mm in body length, characterized by distinctive microtomentum patterns on the body and wings. The genus contains 11 described distributed across the Holarctic region, with larvae occupying semiaquatic where they feed on blue-green .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Nostima: /nɔːsˈtiː.ma/
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Identification
Distinguished from related by the absence of acrostichal setae (Garifuna has two rows, Philygria has one row) and the absence of presutural dorsocentral setae (present in Philygria). The combination of small size, microtomentum patterns, and these setal reductions allows genus-level identification.
Images
Appearance
Small flies with body lengths ranging from 0.72 to 1.72 mm. The body and wings bear patterns of microtomentum (fine hair-like structures).
Habitat
occur in grassy . Larvae are semiaquatic, developing in moist environments where blue-green grow.
Distribution
Holarctic distribution with records from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden; additional described from North America suggest broader northern temperate distribution.
Diet
Larvae feed on blue-green (Cyanobacteria). feeding habits are not documented.
Life Cycle
Larval stage is semiaquatic. Complete with , larva, pupa, and stages is inferred from -level but specific details are not documented.
Ecological Role
Larvae function as primary consumers in semiaquatic , processing blue-green . Their role in nutrient cycling in moist grassy has been suggested but not quantified.
Similar Taxa
- GarifunaPossesses two rows of acrostichal setae, which Nostima lacks
- PhilygriaPossesses one row of acrostichal setae and presutural dorsocentral setae, both absent in Nostima
More Details
Species Diversity
The contains 11 described : N. approximata, N. duoseta, N. gilvipes, N. negramaculata, N. niveivenosa, N. occidentalis, N. picta, N. pulchra, N. quinquenotata, N. scutellaris, and N. slossonae.
Taxonomic History
The was established by Daniel William Coquillett in 1900, with N. slossonae as the type .