Callicera duncani
Curran, 1935
Orange-legged Longhorn
Callicera duncani is a of hoverfly in the Syrphidae, described by Curran in 1935. It belongs to the Callicera, commonly known as the longhorn hoverflies for their characteristically elongated . The species is distinguished from by its orange legs and specific antennal . As with other members of the tribe Callicerini, it is presumed to be associated with decaying wood where larvae develop.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Callicera duncani: /kælɪˈsɪərə ˈdʌŋkəni/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Callicera by orange legs; antennal segment proportions and coloration patterns separate it from such as Callicera spinolae and Callicera aurata. The elongated , characteristic of the , are particularly long in this species. Specific diagnostic features require examination of male genitalia and detailed antennal segment ratios.
Distribution
Known from western North America; type locality and specific range details require verification from original description.
Ecological Role
Similar Taxa
- Callicera spinolaeOverlapping distribution and similar body form; distinguished by leg coloration and antennal proportions
- Callicera aurataShares elongated but differs in overall coloration and leg pigmentation
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The Callicera is among the most distinctive syrphid genera due to the extreme elongation of the , particularly in males. The tribe Callicerini has been subject to recent phylogenetic revision, confirming its placement within Eristalinae.
Nomenclatural History
Described by Charles Howard Curran in 1935, a prolific dipterist who described numerous North American Syrphidae during the early-to-mid 20th century.