Micropeza ruficeps

Wulp, 1897

Micropeza ruficeps is a of stilt-legged fly described by Wulp in 1897. It belongs to the Micropezidae, a group of true flies characterized by exceptionally long, slender legs and small bodies. The specific epithet ruficeps refers to the reddish coloration of the . Records of this species are sparse, with limited observational data available.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Micropeza ruficeps: /ˌmaɪ.kroʊˈpeː.zə ˈruː.fɪˌsɛps/

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Identification

The name ruficeps (red ) suggests diagnostic reddish coloration on the head, distinguishing it from with darker or differently colored heads. Micropezidae species are generally recognized by their stilt-like legs, small heads, and elongated bodies. Positive identification requires examination of specific morphological characters and comparison with .

Similar Taxa

  • Micropeza corrigiolataSimilar body plan and leg proportions; distinguished by coloration and specific antennal and wing venation characters.
  • Other Micropeza speciesCongeneric share the characteristic stilt-legged ; require careful examination of color, leg banding patterns, and male genitalia for separation.

More Details

Taxonomic Notes

The Micropeza is the type genus of the Micropezidae. -level in this genus relies heavily on subtle color patterns and male terminalia, making field identification challenging without specimen examination.

Data Limitations

Only 6 observations are recorded in iNaturalist as of the source date, indicating this is either genuinely rare, undercollected, or restricted to specific or geographic regions not frequently surveyed.

Sources and further reading