Geomyza apicalis
(Meigen, 1830)
Geomyza apicalis is a of fly in the Opomyzidae, described by Johann Wilhelm Meigen in 1830. This small dipteran belongs to a family commonly known as flat-footed flies, characterized by their distinctive leg structure. The species has been recorded from northern Europe, specifically Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Geomyza apicalis: /dʒiːoʊˈmɪzə æˈpɪkəlɪs/
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Identification
Members of the Geomyza can be distinguished from other Opomyzidae by their relatively short and the structure of the . Within Geomyza, G. apicalis is recognized by the dark marking on the wings, which gives the its name. The wing pattern, with a distinct darkening at the tip, separates it from such as G. balachowskyi and G. nartshukae which lack this apical darkening or show different wing patterns.
Images
Distribution
Recorded from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. The distribution appears restricted to northern Europe based on available occurrence data.
Similar Taxa
- Geomyza balachowskyiSimilar body size and general , but lacks the dark wing marking characteristic of G. apicalis.
- Geomyza nartshukaeOverlapping geographic range in northern Europe; distinguished by wing venation and absence of darkening.
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet 'apicalis' refers to the darkened apex of the wings, a diagnostic feature of this .
Taxonomic history
Described by Meigen in 1830, this has remained within the Geomyza throughout its taxonomic history. The Opomyzidae has undergone some reclassification, formerly sometimes treated as a of Chloropidae.