Gonatocerus rivalis

Girault, 1911

Gonatocerus rivalis is a of fairyfly in the Mymaridae, described by Girault in 1911. The species is known from limited distribution records in North America and Venezuela. As a member of the Gonatocerus, it is presumed to be an , though specific associations for this species have not been documented. The species is among the smaller members of the family, which are among the smallest insects known.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Gonatocerus rivalis: //ˌɡoʊ.nəˈtɒ.sɛr.əs ˈrɪ.və.lɪs//

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Identification

Gonatocerus rivalis can be distinguished from other Gonatocerus by the combination of morphological features typical of the , including reduced wing venation with few closed , short with relatively few segments, and characteristic genitalia structure. Specific diagnostic features for this species relative to require examination of type material or original description.

Distribution

Recorded from Illinois, Kansas, and Virginia in the United States, and from Venezuela in South America.

Similar Taxa

  • Gonatocerus ashmeadiSimilar size range and general ; both are of sharpshooters, but G. ashmeadi is well-documented as a agent of Homalodisca vitripennis whereas G. rivalis lacks confirmed records
  • Gonatocerus tuberculifemurClosely related with overlapping geographic range in the Americas; distinguished by subtle differences in antennal segmentation and wing venation patterns
  • Gonatocerus fasciatusSimilar body plan and preferences; G. fasciatus has documented associations with Homalodisca coagulata and Oncometopia orbona while G. rivalis hosts remain unknown

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Sources and further reading