Stratiomys laticeps
(Loew, 1866)
soldier fly
Stratiomys laticeps is a of soldier fly in the Stratiomyidae. It is one of several North American species in the Stratiomys, which are recognized by their -mimicking coloration. The specific epithet "laticeps" refers to the broad characteristic of this species. Like other members of its genus, it is likely associated with wetland or aquatic where its larvae develop.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Stratiomys laticeps: //strætiˈoʊmɪs ˈlætɪˌsɛps//
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Identification
Members of the Stratiomys can be distinguished from similar -mimicking flies by their relatively broad and the structure of wing venation characteristic of Stratiomyidae. Stratiomys laticeps specifically can be separated from by its broad head (reflected in the name) and likely differs in details of thoracic patterning and abdominal coloration, though specific diagnostic features for this species require examination. The genus Stratiomys as a whole is distinguished from the superficially similar Hoplitimyia by generally less flighty and duller .
Images
Distribution
Canada, United States.
Behavior
Based on observations of related in the Stratiomys, are not notably flighty and can be approached more easily than some other -mimicking soldier flies such as Hoplitimyia.
Similar Taxa
- Hoplitimyia mutabilisBoth are -mimicking soldier flies with black and yellow coloration, but Hoplitimyia is distinguished by its extremely flighty and prominent patterned , whereas Stratiomys including S. laticeps have duller eyes and are more approachable.
- Syrphidae (hoverflies)Many hoverflies also exhibit mimicry with black and yellow patterns and can be confused with soldier flies; they are distinguished by the presence of a spurious in the wing and typically more rounded .
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The basionym Stratiomyia laticeps was established by Loew in 1866 and later transferred to the Stratiomys.