Panorpa dubitans
Carpenter, 1931
Panorpa dubitans is a of common scorpionfly in the Panorpidae, order Mecoptera. It was described by Carpenter in 1931 and is found in North America. Like other members of the Panorpa, it belongs to a group of insects commonly known as scorpionflies due to the enlarged, upturned claspers of males that resemble a 's tail. The species is one of approximately six Panorpa species recorded from Missouri and surrounding regions.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Panorpa dubitans: //pəˈnɔrpə ˈdubɪtans//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Distribution
North America. Specific locality records are sparse, but the is documented from the continent based on collection records and taxonomic literature.
Similar Taxa
- Panorpa helenaBoth are common, widespread North American Panorpa with yellow-banded wings. Panorpa helena has three complete bands across yellow wings and an anal horn on the sixth abdominal in males; examination of male genitalia is required for definitive separation from P. dubitans.
- Panorpa nuptialisAnother North American Panorpa that has been observed on human cadavers in studies. Similar general with male claspers; distinguished by specific wing banding patterns and genitalia.
- Panorpa acutaCommon scorpionfly found in eastern North America. Shares the general Panorpa body plan and preferences; species-level identification requires examination of wing venation patterns and male genital structures.