Odontomyia

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Odontomyia: //oʊˌdɒn.toʊˈmaɪ.i.ə//

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Summary

Odontomyia is a genus of soldier flies part of the family Stratiomyidae, characterized by their lifecycle which involves aquatic larvae and nectar-feeding adults. They are slender flies often found in proximity to water bodies where their larvae develop.

Physical Characteristics

9–12 mm in length; notable for their soldier fly appearance.

Identification Tips

Key for identification is the size (9–12 mm) and habitat association near water.

Habitat

Woodlands, fields, usually near water.

Distribution

Around the world, with approximately 31 species in the area and about 220 globally.

Diet

Adults take nectar and are sometimes found on dung; larvae feed on algae.

Life Cycle

Adults emerge in the spring and summer months (Apr‒Jun in NC, May‒Jul in MN).

Reproduction

Eggs are laid on the edge of bodies of water, where larvae develop.

Ecosystem Role

Their larvae are aquatic and contribute to nutrient cycling in water ecosystems, while adults may participate in pollination.

Collecting Methods

• Netting adults from flowers
• Collecting larvae from water bodies

Preservation Methods

• Pinning adults
• Freezing larvae for study

Evolution

Part of the Stratiomyidae family, which exhibits evolutionary traits for aquatic larval development.

Similar Taxa

• Stratiomys
• Chorisops

Tags

• Odontomyia
• soldier flies
• Stratiomyidae
• aquatic larvae
• pollinators