Polydontomyia curvipes
(Wiedemann, 1830)
Dimorphic Sickleleg
Polydontomyia curvipes, commonly known as the dimorphic sickleleg, is a of hoverfly ( Syrphidae) and the sole member of its . Formerly classified under Lejops, it was reassigned to the resurrected genus Polydontomyia based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence. The species exhibits in leg structure, with males possessing the distinctive curved hind legs referenced in its specific epithet. As a member of the Eristalini tribe, it is associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic larval typical of rat-tail maggot flies.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Polydontomyia curvipes: //ˌpɒlɪˌdɒntəˈmaɪə ˈkɜːvɪˌpiːz//
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Identification
Males are distinguished by strongly curved, sickle-shaped hind tibiae and —structures absent or reduced in females, giving rise to the 'dimorphic' . This in leg is unique among North American syrphid and serves as the primary diagnostic feature. resemble other Eristalini hoverflies in general body plan but can be separated from related genera (Lejops, Eristalis) by the combination of: single ; wing venation with distinct bend in R4+5; and the characteristic leg dimorphism in males. Females lack the curved hind legs and appear more generalized, requiring careful examination of genitalic characters or association with males for confident identification.
Images
Habitat
Larval consists of eutrophic aquatic environments including stagnant ponds, marshes, and polluted water bodies where decomposing organic matter accumulates. are found in riparian and wetland-edge habitats, often resting on emergent vegetation or bare ground near breeding sites.
Distribution
North America, with records spanning southern Canada through the United States. Documented from the Atlantic seaboard westward to the Great Plains and Rocky Mountain regions.
Similar Taxa
- LejopsFormerly placed in this ; Lejops lack the pronounced sexual leg dimorphism of Polydontomyia curvipes and generally show more uniform pale abdominal markings.
- EristalisShares aquatic larval and general 'rat-tail maggot' ; Eristalis are larger, have different wing venation (loop in R4+5), and lack leg dimorphism.