Cyphomyia pilosissima
Gerstaecker, 1857
Cyphomyia pilosissima is a of soldier fly in the Stratiomyidae, described by Gerstaecker in 1857. It belongs to the Clitellariinae, a group known for often having metallic coloration and distinctive body shapes. The specific epithet 'pilosissima' (meaning 'most hairy') suggests a notably pilose body covering. Records of this species are sparse, with only three observations documented on iNaturalist, indicating it may be rarely encountered or understudied.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cyphomyia pilosissima: //ˌsaɪfoʊˈmaɪə ˌpɪloʊˈsɪsɪmə//
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Identification
Distinguished from by its exceptionally hairy body, as reflected in the name. Within Cyphomyia, identification to species level requires examination of setal and pattern. Separation from other Clitellariinae relies on antennal structure and wing venation details. Definitive identification may require reference to the original description or taxonomic keys.
Distribution
Specific geographic range not well documented in available sources. The Cyphomyia has a broad distribution, but precise locality records for C. pilosissima require verification from primary literature.
Ecological Role
As a soldier fly larva, likely contributes to decomposition processes in its , though specific ecological function for this is undocumented. stratiomyids are generally non-biting and may serve as .
Similar Taxa
- Other Cyphomyia speciesShare -level characters including antennal structure and general body plan; distinguished primarily by degree of pilosity and subtle morphological details
- Other Clitellariinae genera (e.g., Stratiomys, Odontomyia)Similar broad-bodied, often metallic appearance; separable by antennal , wing venation, and specific setal patterns
More Details
Nomenclatural note
The specific epithet 'pilosissima' is a superlative form of Latin 'pilosus' (hairy), emphasizing this as an exceptionally hairy within its or related
Data scarcity
Only three iNaturalist observations and minimal aggregated database records suggest this is either genuinely rare, geographically restricted, taxonomically problematic, or simply understudied