Arthroceras
Williston, 1886
Species Guides
2Arthroceras is a of snipe flies ( Rhagionidae) established by Williston in 1886. It is the sole genus in the Arthrocerinae. range from 4.5 to 13 mm in body length and occur in both the Palearctic and Neotropical regions.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Arthroceras: //ɑːrˈθrɒsəræs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Rhagionidae by the combination of: (1) long, tapering with 5–8 flagellomeres (most rhagionids have shorter or differently structured antennae), and (2) placement as the only in Arthrocerinae based on phylogenetic classification by some authorities. Body size and coloration alone are not diagnostic.
Appearance
Mid-sized to large flies measuring 4.5–13 mm. Body coloration black, grey, or yellowish. fairly long and tapering, composed of 5–8 flagellomeres.
Distribution
Disjunct distribution across Palearctic (Japan, China, Russia) and Neotropical regions (Central and South America). Specific associations within these regions are not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Rhagionidae genera (e.g., Rhagio, Symphoromyia)Share general snipe fly but differ in antennal structure—Arthroceras has uniquely long, tapering with 5–8 flagellomeres versus typically shorter or differently segmented antennae in related .
- Other Diptera families (Bibionidae, Therevidae)Superficially similar body forms may cause confusion, but Arthroceras is distinguished by the combination of rhagionid wing venation and its characteristic antennal .
More Details
Taxonomic placement
The Arthrocerinae, containing only Arthroceras, is recognized by some authorities but not universally accepted; alternative classifications may place these directly within Rhagionidae without subfamily designation.