Genus Limonia

Classification · Numbers · Size · Identification · Food · Life Cycle · Internet References

BG1034 C9677 - Limonia domestica - female

Classification

Kingdom Animalia (Animals)

Phylum Arthropoda (Arthropods)

Class Insecta (Insects)

Order Diptera (Flies)

No Taxon ("Nematocera" (Non-Brachycera))

Infraorder Tipulomorpha

Family Limoniidae (Limoniid Crane Flies)

Genus Limonia

Numbers

143 species in North America (nearctica.com)

more than 2,000 species in 41 subgenera worldwide

Size

10-12 mm

Identification

antennae with 12 flagellomeres; radial sectorial vein with two branches

The adults of this species are characterized by elongate mouthparts used for taking nectar from flowers. They display an up-and-down bobbing motion on the surface of rocks or leaves. This bobbing is especially noticeable immediately after the fly has landed or when it has been disturbed.

Food

The larvae feed mainly on algae.

Life Cycle

The larvae spend their lives in gelatinous tubes constructed on rocks covered with algal growth, where the surface is constantly wet along streams or vertical cliffs.

Internet References

The Crane Flies of Pennsylvania (Dr. Chen Young, Carnegie Museum of Natural History)

Contributed by Robin McLeod on 20 July, 2005 - 8:17pm
Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset
Last updated 10 December, 2005 - 7:22pm

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