Hairy-eyed Crane Flies
Pediciidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Diptera
- Infraorder: Tipulomorpha
- Family: Pediciidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pediciidae: //pɛˈdɪsi.aɪdiː//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Pediciidae, or hairy-eyed crane flies, are a family of flies closely related to true crane flies, characterized by their medium to large size, distinctive eyes, and long slender limbs. They inhabit temperate regions and comprise about 500 species globally.
Physical Characteristics
Medium-sized to large flies (5 mm to 35 mm). Long and slender wings, legs, and abdomen. Ocelli absent. Eyes are pubescent with short erect hairs between the facets. Antennae have 12-17 segments. Thorax with a V-shaped transverse suture. Wings of Pedicia have contrasting brown longitudinal stripes.
Identification Tips
Look for the absence of ocelli and the presence of short erect hairs on the eyes, which are usually glabrous in related families. The specific wing patterns and body size can also aid in identifying this family.
Habitat
Primarily found in temperate zones of both hemispheres.
Distribution
About 150 species and subspecies in 6 genera (+10 subgenera) in the local area; approximately 500 species in 25 genera worldwide.
Evolution
The oldest fossils of the family date to the Jurassic, indicating a long evolutionary history.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often confused with true crane flies due to their similar appearance, Pediciidae can be distinguished by specific morphological characteristics such as eye pubescence and wing structure.
Tags
- Entomology
- Diptera
- Pediciidae