Cylindrotomid Crane Flies
Cylindrotomidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Diptera
- Infraorder: Tipulomorpha
- Family: Cylindrotomidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cylindrotomidae: /sɪˌlɪndrəˈtɒmɪdiː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Cylindrotomidae, commonly known as long-bodied crane flies, comprise a family characterized by their elongated bodies and slender features, with species found across damp wooded habitats.
Physical Characteristics
Mostly large flies of around 11–16 mm; yellowish to pale brownish in colour; long, slender antennae with 16 segments; long wings, legs, and abdomen.
Identification Tips
Look for long-bodied crane flies with slender antennae and long limbs in damp, wooded habitats.
Habitat
Damp, wooded habitats; larvae found on terrestrial, semiaquatic, and aquatic mosses; some larvae live on flowering plants.
Distribution
Worldwide with approximately 65 extant species in 9 genera; 8 species in 4 genera found in specific regions.
Diet
Phytophagous larvae (except Cylindrotoma), feeding on various plants and mosses.
Life Cycle
Incomplete metamorphosis with larvae developing in damp environments; adults emerge from larvae under suitable conditions.
Ecosystem Role
As larvae, they contribute to the decomposition process in their habitats; adults are part of the food web.
Collecting Methods
- Netting adults in wetland areas
- Searching for larvae in moist mosses and soil
Preservation Methods
- Pinning adults
- Preserving larvae in ethanol or freezing
Evolution
Split off from Tipulidae during the Jurassic; no fossils until Paleogene; substantial diversification during Cenozoic with notable fossil records.
Similar Taxa
Tags
- Cylindrotomidae
- crane flies
- insecta
- biological classification
- ecology