Macromya
Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830
Macromya is a of comprising approximately five to seven described . Members are morphologically similar to one another and closely resemble the genus Adejeania, with which they are frequently confused. The genus reaches its highest diversity in the Neotropics but extends into the southern Nearctic region. Like other tachinids, these are , though specific associations remain poorly documented for most species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Macromya: /ˌmækroʊˈmaɪə/
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Identification
within Macromya are distinguished from one another primarily by basic color differences rather than structural characters. Macromya crocata strongly resembles Adejeania vexatrix but lacks the elongated, -like mouthpart characteristic of that species. Macromya species are generally large with spiny , a trait common to many members of the .
Distribution
Center of maximum occurs in the Neotropics; range extends well within the southern limits of the Nearctic region. Specific occurrences include western North America from British Columbia and Alberta south through California, Arizona, and New Mexico.
Similar Taxa
- AdejeaniaMacromya , particularly M. crocata, are frequently confused with Adejeania vexatrix due to similar size, coloration, and preferences. Macromya lacks the distinctive elongated that form a -like around the mouthparts present in Adejeania.
- ParadejeaniaBoth are large, spiny that visit late summer and fall wildflowers. Paradejeania rutilioides is generally more and spinier than Macromya , with more subdued orange coloration.
- Hystricia abruptaAnother common western North American tachinid frequently mistaken for Macromya due to similar appearance and shared .
More Details
Taxonomic History
The was reviewed in 1968, at which time three new were described. The type species is Macromya depressa Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830.
Research Limitations
Biological details including specific associations, preferences, and remain largely undocumented for most Macromya . Available information derives primarily from and limited field observations.