Dicromantispa
Dicromantispa
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Neuroptera
- Suborder: Hemerobiiformia
- Family: Mantispidae
- Subfamily: Mantispinae
- Genus: Dicromantispa
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dicromantispa: //daɪ.kroʊˈmæn.tɪ.spa//
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Summary
Dicromantispa is a genus of mantidflies in the Mantispidae family with approximately 10 described species. Known for their distinct physical characteristics, they inhabit regions from Canada to Argentina and play a role in controlling pest populations as predators.
Physical Characteristics
Pronotum with transverse ridges and very short, fine setae, concentrated in small patches at the anterior and posterior ends, with at most very sparse tiny hairs in between.
Identification Tips
To identify members of the genus Dicromantispa, look for the distinct morphology of the pronotum and the characteristic features of mantidflies. They exhibit noticeable features that differentiate them from other genera in Mantispidae.
Habitat
Found in various habitats across the New World, from Canada to Argentina; they may inhabit forested areas and regions with diverse vegetation.
Distribution
Transcontinental distribution in North America, extending from Canada to Argentina; includes a range of ecological zones.
Diet
As larvae, members of Dicromantispa are predatory, feeding on soft-bodied insects; adults are believed to possess similar predatory habits.
Life Cycle
Life cycle involves egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, but detailed specifics about the duration and behavior of each stage are not provided.
Reproduction
Reproduction details are not extensively documented in the available literature; generally, like other mantidflies, they likely exhibit oviparous reproduction.
Ecosystem Role
As predators, they play a role in controlling pest populations, contributing to the dynamics of their respective ecosystems.
Collecting Methods
- Netting adult specimens
- Using aspirators to collect larvae from vegetation
Preservation Methods
- Pinning for adult specimens
- Preservation in ethanol for larvae
Evolution
The genus Dicromantispa is evolutionarily categorized under Mantispidae, sharing common ancestors with similar genera; taxonomic revisions have placed former members of Mantispa into Dicromantispa since 2002.
Similar Taxa
- Mantispa
- Mantidae
Misconceptions
There may be misconceptions regarding their ecology, such as their predatory habits being confused with those of true flies or other similar insects.
Tags
- insect
- mantidfly
- Dicromantispa
- Mantispidae
- neuroptera