Kelp-fly
Guides
Aleochara sulcicollis
A rove beetle species in the family Staphylinidae with a documented parasitoid life history involving kelp flies. Larvae develop as parasitoids of intertidal kelp flies, specifically Fucellia rufitibia, with adults likely active in coastal habitats where macroalgae and host flies occur. The species has been recorded across a broad geographic range spanning North, Central, and South America.
Coelopa
Bristly Kelp Flies, kelp flies, seaweed flies
Coelopa is a genus of kelp flies comprising approximately 13-14 described species. These flies are obligate associates of stranded seaweed (wrackbeds) in coastal environments, where they complete their entire life cycle. The genus is notable for extensive research on sexual selection, chromosomal inversions, and ecological genetics, particularly in the well-studied species Coelopa frigida. Species within this genus exhibit resource competition and dietary niche partitioning where sympatric.
Coelopa frigida
seaweed fly, kelp fly
Coelopa frigida is a seaweed fly and the most widely distributed species in its genus, found on temperate Northern Hemisphere shorelines with stranded algae. Adults are 5–6 mm with dark brown to black bodies, lighter legs, and large translucent wings. The species exhibits a chromosomal inversion polymorphism (αβ system) that generates two distinct size morphs with different developmental rates and life-history strategies. It has become a model organism for studying sexual selection, particularly female choice and sexual conflict, and for investigating the genetic basis of local adaptation through chromosomal inversions.
Coelopa vanduzeei
kelp fly
Coelopa vanduzeei is a species of kelp fly in the family Coelopidae, a group of flies specialized for life in coastal environments. Like other members of this family, it is associated with decaying marine vegetation. The species was described by Cresson in 1914.