Euxesta annonae
(Fabricius, 1794)
cornsilk fly
Euxesta annonae is a picture-winged fly in the Ulidiidae, one of four 'cornsilk fly' documented as pests of sweet corn in Florida. The species has a broad distribution spanning from Florida to Hawaii. Like other cornsilk flies, it exhibits distinctive wing patterning and wing-flapping .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Euxesta annonae: //juː.ˈzɛs.tə ə.ˈnoʊ.naɪ//
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Identification
One of four Euxesta attacking corn in Florida; distinguished from by specific wing patterning (exact diagnostic features not detailed in available sources). Medium to dark metallic green to black coloration shared with E. stigmatias, E. eluta, and Chaetopsis massyla.
Habitat
Agricultural ; specifically associated with sweet corn ears.
Distribution
Florida to Hawaii; present in the United States.
Diet
Sweet corn ears (Zea mays); has been observed feeding on corn.
Host Associations
- Zea mays - feeds onsweet corn ears
Behavior
Wing-flapping has been observed in cornsilk flies generally; distinctive wing patterns used in display.
Ecological Role
Pest of sweet corn agriculture.
Human Relevance
Agricultural pest of sweet corn in Florida and Hawaii.
Similar Taxa
- Euxesta stigmatiasAlso a cornsilk fly pest of sweet corn in Florida, sharing metallic coloration and wing patterning
- Euxesta elutaThird cornsilk fly attacking corn in Florida; microhabitat differences exist but not detailed in sources
- Chaetopsis massylaFourth cornsilk fly in Florida corn pest complex, in related