Stratiomys laticeps
(Loew, 1866)
soldier fly
Stratiomys laticeps is a of in the . It is one of several North 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 develop.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Stratiomys laticeps: //strætiˈoʊmɪs ˈlætɪˌsɛps//
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Identification
Members of the Stratiomys can be distinguished from similar -mimicking by their relatively broad and the structure of characteristic of . 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 such as Hoplitimyia.
Similar Taxa
- Hoplitimyia mutabilisBoth are -mimicking with black and 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 also exhibit with black and patterns and can be confused with ; they are distinguished by the presence of a in the and typically more rounded .
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The basionym Stratiomyia laticeps was established by Loew in 1866 and later transferred to the Stratiomys.