Sphaerocera curvipes

Latreille, 1805

lesser dung fly

Sphaerocera curvipes is a of small dung fly in the Sphaeroceridae, commonly known as lesser dung flies. The species was described by Latreille in 1805 and is one of the more frequently observed members of its , with over 260 documented observations on iNaturalist. It belongs to a family specialized in exploiting decaying organic matter, particularly .

Sphaeocera curvipes as S. subsultans frontal head (Francis Walker Insecta Britanica Vol 2 page 321 plate XIV) by Walker, F. 1851-1856. Insecta Britannica: Diptera, Vols. 2. Plate XIV, p. 321. Lovell Reeve, London.. Used under a Public domain license.Sphaeocera curvipes as S. subsultans mouth (Francis Walker Insecta Britanica Vol 2 page 321 plate XIV) by Walker, F. 1851-1856. Insecta Britannica: Diptera, Vols. 2. Plate XIV, p. 321. Lovell Reeve, London.. Used under a Public domain license.Sphaeocera curvipes as S. subsultans (Francis Walker Insecta Britanica Vol 2 page 321 plate XIV) by Walker, F. 1851-1856. Insecta Britannica: Diptera, Vols. 2. Plate XIV, p. 321. Lovell Reeve, London.. Used under a Public domain license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sphaerocera curvipes: /sfɪəˈrɒsərə ˈkɜːvɪpiːz/

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Identification

Identification to level within Sphaerocera requires examination of subtle morphological characters including genitalia and leg structure; the specific epithet 'curvipes' refers to curved legs, which may aid in distinguishing this species from . Members of Sphaeroceridae are generally small (2-5 mm), humpbacked flies with reduced wing venation. Definitive identification typically requires microscopic examination by a .

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Habitat

Associated with decaying organic matter, particularly , in both pastoral and natural environments.

Distribution

Recorded from Belgium (Flemish and Walloon regions) and the Azores (Faial, São Miguel); likely more widespread in Europe given the 's distribution patterns.

Ecological Role

Member of the dung fly contributing to decomposition and nutrient cycling in organic matter deposits.

Human Relevance

Forms part of the natural decomposer in agricultural and pastoral settings; no significant direct economic impact documented.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Sphaerocera speciesRequire microscopic examination of male genitalia and leg for reliable separation; S. curvipes distinguished by curved leg structure implied by its .
  • Other Sphaeroceridae generaSphaerocera can be separated from related by wing venation patterns and body proportions, though this requires knowledge.

More Details

Taxonomic history

Described by Pierre André Latreille in 1805, making it one of the earlier described in the Sphaeroceridae.

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