Rhagio punctipennis
(Say, 1823)
lesser variegated snipe fly
Rhagio punctipennis, commonly known as the lesser variegated snipe fly, is a of snipe fly in the Rhagionidae. The species was first described by Thomas Say in 1823. It is part of a diverse of predatory flies found primarily in woodland and forest edge across North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Rhagio punctipennis: //ˈreɪɡioʊ ˌpʌŋktɪˈpɛnɪs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The specific epithet 'punctipennis' refers to spotted or punctate wings, suggesting wing patterning as a distinguishing feature. As with other Rhagio , likely exhibit the characteristic elongated body form and long, slender legs typical of snipe flies. Definitive identification to species level requires examination of wing venation patterns and abdominal coloration.
Images
Distribution
Recorded from Vermont and other parts of the United States based on distribution records. The full range within North America requires further documentation.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- Catalogue of Life
- Meloidae Holdings | Entomology Research Museum
- How One State's Mosquito Data Could Reduce Risk of Malaria Returning to U.S.
- Folklore and Myth: The Invertebrate Edition - Buglife Blog - Buglife
- Even at the Zoo, Mosquitoes Favor Local Wild Birds for Meals
- Bug Eric: January 2014