Microdon cothurnatus
Bigot, 1884
orange-legged ant fly
Microdon cothurnatus, known as the orange-legged fly, is a syrphid fly documented across the Northern United States and Canada. Unlike most hoverflies, are rarely observed at flowers. The species is notable for its ant-associated : larvae develop within ant nests.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Microdon cothurnatus: //ˌmaɪ.kroʊˈdɒn ˌkɒ.θɜrˈneɪ.təs//
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Identification
Distinguished from other Microdon by the combination of: yellowish lateral thoracic bands, yellowish scutellum with dark center, pale reddish with dark segmental borders, and distinctive leg pattern with yellow base color, dark with pale rings, and black posterior tibiae with pale bases. The orange-legged fly is rarely found at flowers, unlike most syrphids. Separation from other Microdon species requires examination of these specific color patterns.
Habitat
Associated with colonies; larvae develop within ant nests. poorly documented due to infrequent flower visitation.
Distribution
Northern United States and Canada.
Host Associations
- several species of ant - larval Larvae have been found in nests.
Behavior
are seldom observed around flowers, diverging from typical syrphid . Like other hoverflies, capable of nearly motionless .
Ecological Role
Larval association with ants suggests role as or within colonies; specific ecological function not documented.
Similar Taxa
- other Microdon speciesShare -associated and general body form; distinguished by specific color patterns on , , and legs.
- other syrphid fliesMost syrphids frequent flowers as ; Microdon cothurnatus is rarely observed at flowers and has distinctive -associated .
More Details
Taxonomic history
First described by Bigot in 1884.
Collection rarity
iNaturalist records indicate only 2 observations, suggesting the is rarely encountered or underreported.