Trichocera garretti
Alexander, 1927
winter crane fly
Trichocera garretti is a of winter crane fly in the Trichoceridae. are active during winter months, a rare trait among insects. The species is part of the Trichocera, which contains most North American winter crane flies. Larvae are scavengers in decaying organic matter.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Trichocera garretti: /ˌtrɪkəˈsɪrə ˈɡærɪti/
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Identification
Distinguished from other crane flies (Tipulidae) by three ocelli on the crown of the between the ; other crane flies lack ocelli. Wing venation also differs from Tipulidae and helps separate trichocerids from other crane fly . -level identification requires examination of subtle morphological characters not visible in the field.
Habitat
Dark, sheltered situations including mouths of caves and mine shafts, hollow trees, and cellars. Larval includes decomposing leaves and vegetables, fungi, manure, decaying tubers in root cellars, and rodent burrows.
Distribution
Recorded from Vermont and other parts of the United States.
Seasonality
active in winter months, including December. Males observed flying in swarms on sunny winter days.
Diet
Larvae are scavengers on decaying leaves, vegetables, fungi, manure, and material in rodent burrows.
Life Cycle
Larval stage develops in decaying organic matter. emerge in winter.
Behavior
Males fly in swarms on sunny winter days. attracted to light.
Ecological Role
Decomposer; larvae break down decaying organic matter. Contributes to nutrient cycling in with decaying vegetation and fungi.
Human Relevance
Larvae occasionally pests of stored tubers in root cellars. Otherwise of no economic importance.
Similar Taxa
- Tipulidae (true crane flies)Similar slender body and long legs, but lack ocelli and have different wing venation
- Trichocera sp. (other winter crane flies)Share characters; identification requires detailed morphological examination