Pedicia contermina
Walker, 1848
hairy-eyed crane fly
Pedicia contermina is a of hairy-eyed crane fly in the Pediciidae, first described by Francis Walker in 1848. It belongs to a group of crane flies distinguished by their hairy , a trait characteristic of the family. The species is found in eastern North America, with records spanning from Newfoundland to North Carolina.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pedicia contermina: /pɛˈdiːʃə kənˈtɜːrmɪnə/
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Identification
Members of Pediciidae, including P. contermina, can be distinguished from other crane fly (Tipulidae, Cylindrotomidae, Limoniidae) by their densely hairy . Specific identification of P. contermina requires examination of genitalia and wing venation patterns.
Distribution
Eastern North America: Canada (Newfoundland, Quebec, Ontario) and USA (Michigan to New England, south to North Carolina). Records include Vermont.
Similar Taxa
- Tipulidae (typical crane flies)Lack hairy ; eyes are smooth or sparsely haired in most Tipulidae
- Other Pediciidae speciesRequire detailed examination of male genitalia and wing characteristics for separation
More Details
Taxonomic note
Pediciidae was formerly treated as a of Limoniidae but is now recognized as a distinct based on morphological and molecular evidence.