Eidalimus
Kertész, 1914
Species Guides
1Eidalimus is a of soldier flies ( Stratiomyidae) in the Pachygastrinae. The genus was established by Kertész in 1914 and contains eight described distributed in the Nearctic and Neotropical regions. Species of this genus are small to medium-sized flies with relatively few detailed studies on their .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eidalimus: /ˌaɪ.dəˈlaɪ.məs/
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Identification
Eidalimus can be distinguished from other Pachygastrinae by features of the and wing venation, though specific diagnostic characters require examination of . The genus name has been synonymized with some related genera in historical literature, necessitating careful taxonomic verification. Species-level identification relies on subtle differences in coloration, antennal structure, and male genitalia.
Distribution
The occurs in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Described are known from the United States (including Hawaii), Mexico, and various Caribbean islands.
Similar Taxa
- PachygasterBoth belong to Pachygastrinae and share reduced wing venation and small body size; Eidalimus differs in antennal structure and facial profile.
- NemotelusOccasionally confused in older literature; Nemotelus ( Nemotelinae) has distinct wing venation with a characteristic bend in R4+5 and different .
More Details
Species diversity
Eight are currently recognized: E. angustifrons (Mexico), E. annulatus (Hawaii), E. flavicornis (Mexico), E. fuscus (Mexico), E. henshawi (western North America), E. insularum (Caribbean), E. lineatus (Mexico), and E. minutus (widespread in North America and Hawaii).
Taxonomic history
The has undergone taxonomic revision, with some originally described in other genera (e.g., E. fuscus as Pachygaster fusca, E. henshawi as Pachygaster henshawi, E. minutus as Nemotelus minutus) later transferred to Eidalimus.