Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
This is Anthomyia in the strict sense used before revisionary work in the 1970s. Older records tend to list all species as A. pluvialis (L.) but that species is a recent introduction to North America. The native species are more common and widespread.
Numbers
Five species in North America (three native, two introduced). Many more species globally.
Identification
Distinguished from other Anthomyia by the strong black and white markings, and from other Muscoidea by the combination of strong black and white markings, hairs on the proepisternum, and prealar bristle present.
Remarks
Species of the A. pluvialis section have contrasting gray and black markings. (Most species are dull brownish gray.) Five species of this section are known or suspected to occur in the Nearctic region:
Transverse dark band behind suture: A. oculifera males, A. illocata
Three spots behind suture, separate or joined with deep notches: A. pluvialis, A. procellaris, A. ottowana
Two, long longitudinal stripes along dorsocentrals: A. oculifera females
See Griffiths (2001)
(2) or Suwa (1987)
(3) for illustrations. Key to species in
(1)See Also
Brontaea, Calythea, Eustalomyia, Gymnodia, and Limnophora also have species that are bright gray with dark stripes or spots.
Contributed by
John F. Carr on 12 December, 2011 - 7:13pm
Additional contributions by
zdankoLast updated 2 August, 2021 - 9:05pm
