Stictomyia punctata
Coquillett, 1900
picture-winged fly
Stictomyia punctata is a of picture-winged fly in the Ulidiidae, first described by Coquillett in 1900. Like other members of its , it possesses the characteristic patterned wings that give picture-winged flies their . The species belongs to a genus with notable ecological associations, including Stictomyia longicornis which is found almost exclusively on prickly-pear cacti. Information specific to S. punctata's and distribution remains limited in available sources.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Stictomyia punctata: /ˌstɪk.toʊˈmaɪ.ə pʌŋkˈteɪ.tə/
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Identification
Stictomyia punctata can be distinguished from other picture-winged flies by its placement in the Stictomyia, which is characterized by specific wing venation and body form traits. Within the genus, it may be separated from the better-known Stictomyia longicornis by differences in wing pattern and body proportions, though specific diagnostic features for S. punctata require direct examination of or specialized taxonomic literature. The name "punctata" (meaning spotted or punctured) likely refers to distinctive spotting on the wings or body.
Appearance
As a member of the Ulidiidae , this possesses patterned wings with spots, bars, or lines—a defining trait of picture-winged flies. The Stictomyia includes species with relatively short wings that may be plastered to the body, and some species have a -like or true -like appearance rather than a typical fly form. Specific morphological details for S. punctata are not documented in available sources.
Distribution
Distribution records for this are sparse. Based on iNaturalist observations, the species has been documented at least 9 times, though specific localities are not detailed in available sources. The Stictomyia has been recorded in western North America and southwestern United States, with Stictomyia longicornis found in Colorado and associated with prickly-pear cactus .
Similar Taxa
- Stictomyia longicornisCongeneric with documented ; found on prickly-pear cacti in southwestern U.S., with short wings plastered to body and -like appearance. S. punctata likely differs in wing pattern and association.
- Ceroxys latiusculusAnother ulidiid with patterned wings, but in a different ; develops in seed of Senecio plants and commonly invades buildings in fall for shelter. Differs in larval and from Stictomyia .
- Delphinia pictaCommon eastern ulidiid that breeds in decaying organic matter and compost; larger (7-8 mm) and more associated with human-disturbed than Stictomyia .
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Ulidiidae was formerly known as , and older references may use this name. The Stictomyia is part of a diverse family of approximately 40 genera and 133 in North America north of Mexico.
Data limitations
Most available information on Stictomyia derives from studies of S. longicornis; specific biological data for S. punctata appears absent from major entomological references and databases.