Lapposyrphus aberrantis
(Curran, 1925)
Western Loopwing Aphideater
Lapposyrphus aberrantis is a of hoverfly in the Syrphidae, first described by Charles Howard Curran in 1925. It is commonly known as the Western Loopwing Aphideater. The Lapposyrphus comprises aphidophagous hoverflies, and this species follows the general ecological pattern of the group. Observations are relatively sparse, with 54 records on iNaturalist.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lapposyrphus aberrantis: //ˌlæp.oʊˈsɪr.fəs æb.əˈræn.tɪs//
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Identification
The specific epithet "aberrantis" suggests atypical or aberrant morphological features relative to . in the Lapposyrphus can be distinguished from related syrphine genera by wing venation patterns, particularly the presence of a characteristic loop in certain wing . Detailed diagnostic features for this particular species are not well documented in accessible literature.
Images
Distribution
The "Western Loopwing Aphideater" implies a distribution in western North America, though precise range boundaries are not well established. Records from iNaturalist suggest occurrence in the western United States and possibly adjacent Canada.
Diet
As a member of the Lapposyrphus, larvae are presumed aphidophagous, feeding on aphids. This inference is based on the well-documented of the genus, though direct observation of larval feeding for this specific has not been confirmed in available sources.
Ecological Role
likely serve as . Larvae, if confirmed as aphidophagous, would function as agents of .
Human Relevance
Potential value in biological pest control if larval is confirmed. No documented negative impacts.
Similar Taxa
- Lapposyrphus lappusCongeneric with which it may share general and preferences; distinguished by the aberrant features referenced in the specific epithet.
- Other Syrphus-group genera (e.g., Syrphus, Epistrophe)Similar appearance and aphidophagous larval ; Lapposyrphus distinguished by wing venation patterns including the characteristic loop.
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet "aberrantis" (Latin: aberrant, deviating) likely refers to morphological features that deviate from the typical form of the or related , as noted by Curran in the original description.
Taxonomic History
Originally described by Curran in 1925, the has remained in the Lapposyrphus without major taxonomic revision. The genus itself is part of the tribe Syrphini within the Syrphinae.