Botanophila fugax
(Meigen, 1826)
Botanophila fugax is a small fly in the Anthomyiidae, distributed across the Palearctic region. The is characterized by larval development as a stem borer in plant . It has been documented as a host for the fungus Strongwellsea crypta, which produces distinctive rhomboid-shaped abdominal holes in infected individuals.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Botanophila fugax: /ˌboʊ.təˈnɒ.fɪ.lə ˈfjuː.ɡæks/
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Distribution
Palearctic region. Documented presence in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden based on distribution records.
Host Associations
- Strongwellsea crypta - Entomophthoralean fungus that infects , creating rapidly developing, large rhomboid-shaped abdominal holes
Life Cycle
Larval stage develops as a stem borer within plant stems.
Similar Taxa
- Botanophila fonsecaiCongeneric with similar ; B. fonsecai is globally restricted to coastal dunes in East Sutherland, Scotland, whereas B. fugax has broad Palearctic distribution
More Details
Fungal infection morphology
by Strongwellsea crypta produces strikingly large, almost rhomboid-shaped abdominal holes that develop rapidly in infected , a distinctive diagnostic feature of this host- interaction.