Dimorphopteryx

Ashmead, 1898

Species Guides

Dimorphopteryx abnormis
Dimorphopteryx melanognathus(fringed birch sawfly)
Dimorphopteryx pinguis
Dimorphopteryx virginicus

Dimorphopteryx is a of in the Tenthredinidae, established by Ashmead in 1898. The genus is documented from the northeastern United States, particularly Vermont. As a member of the sawfly family Tenthredinidae, in this genus possess the characteristic unmodified waist between and that distinguishes sawflies from other Hymenoptera. The genus name refers to the markedly different wing forms between sexes (dimorphic wings).

Dimorphopteryx melanognathus by (c) Christopher Zacharias, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Christopher Zacharias. Used under a CC-BY license.

Dimorphopteryx abnormis by (c) Ben Armstrong, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Ben Armstrong. Used under a CC-BY license.

Dimorphopteryx autumnalis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Dimorphopteryx: /dɪˌmɔːrfoʊˈptɛrɪks/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from other Tenthredinidae by pronounced in wing : females possess fully developed wings, while males have reduced or wings. This wing dimorphism is the primary diagnostic feature for the genus. Additional identification requires examination of antennal structure and genitalia.

Images

Distribution

Documented from the northeastern United States, specifically Vermont. Distribution records are sparse and likely incomplete due to undercollection of males, which are wingless and rarely encountered.

Similar Taxa

Other Tenthredinidae generaDimorphopteryx is distinguished by its extreme sexual wing dimorphism; most have winged males, whereas Dimorphopteryx males are wingless or have highly reduced wings.