Sphecomyia cryptica
Moran, 2019
Sphecomyia cryptica is a of hoverfly (Diptera: Syrphidae) described in 2019 from the Sphecomyia, a group of large -mimicking flies in the subtribe Criorhinina. It belongs to the S. pattonii species group, characterized by the absence of scutellar vittae. The species exhibits distinctive abdominal patterning with pruinose sternites and yellow-banded tergites. As a member of this Holarctic genus, it likely functions as a in its stage. Biological data remain limited due to its recent description.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sphecomyia cryptica: /ˌsfɛkoʊˈmaɪə ˈkrɪptɪkə/
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Identification
Distinguished from by: sternites 2–4 almost completely with a posteromedial triangular non-pruinose (shiny) region of approximately equal size across sternites; scutellum at least partly yellow pilose; calypter with long yellow pile; tergite 1 with uninterrupted pruinose band along margin; tergite 2 with two yellow bands ( interrupted, posterior uninterrupted); fore not broadened; and surstyli about twice as long as broad. Lacks pruinose scutellar vittae, placing it in the S. pattonii group rather than the S. vittata group.
Images
Habitat
Larval unknown; likely associated with rot holes, decaying wood, or roots based on inferred of related Criorhinina . habitat not specified.
Behavior
have been observed as mimics. Scattered floral and mating records exist for the , though specific behavioral observations for S. cryptica are not documented.
Ecological Role
are flower flies (). Larval role unknown.
Similar Taxa
- Sphecomyia vittataSimilar -mimicking appearance, but S. vittata has scutellar vittae (placing it in the S. vittata group) and different abdominal banding pattern.
- Sphecomyia pattonii in the same group lacking scutellar vittae; distinguished by specific differences in sternite pruinosity pattern and genitalia .
- Criorhina speciesRelated -mimicking syrphids in the same subtribe; Sphecomyia is distinguished by the bare medial vitta extending ventrally from the oral margin, bare gena, bare katepimeron, and specific scutellum and wing venation characteristics.