Diacrita
Gerstaecker, 1860
Species Guides
2Diacrita is a of picture-winged flies in the Ulidiidae, established by Gerstaecker in 1860. The genus contains at least three described : D. aemula, D. costalis, and D. plana. Members of this genus are characterized by patterned wings typical of ulidiid flies. D. costalis is known from the southwestern United States and has been observed in shaded microhabitats.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Diacrita: //daɪ.əˈkraɪ.tə//
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Identification
Diacrita can be distinguished from other ulidiid by their specific wing patterns, though detailed diagnostic features for the genus are not well documented in available sources. D. costalis specifically has been noted as one of the more common and attractive ulidiids in southern Arizona.
Images
Habitat
D. costalis has been observed in shaded situations during daylight hours, including under rock overhangs and covered patios. The is associated with arid and semi-arid environments in the southwestern United States.
Distribution
D. costalis ranges across southern Arizona, southern California, New Mexico, and Texas. The broader distribution of the Diacrita extends through western North America, though precise range boundaries for other are not well established.
Behavior
of D. costalis are attracted to bird . They have been observed seeking shaded shelter during daytime hours.
Similar Taxa
- CeroxysSimilar in size and general appearance as ulidiid flies with patterned wings, but Ceroxys such as C. latiusculus have different wing bar patterns and are associated with Senecio seed rather than shaded and bird .
- PseudotephretinaClosely resembles Ceroxys in size and appearance with wing bars, but differs in having more complete 'tiger-striped' wing patterns; associated with poplar, willow, and cottonwood trees rather than the shaded rocky preferred by Diacrita.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Ulidiidae was formerly known as , and older references may use this name.
Species diversity
Only three are formally listed in available sources (D. aemula, D. costalis, D. plana), but the may contain additional undescribed or poorly documented species.