Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
The European classification only includes subgenus Limonia sensu Alexander. Subgenera Dicranomyia and Idioglochina are combined into a separate genus, Dicranomyia. The subgenera Discobola, Metalimnobia, Neolimonia, and Rhipidia are elevated to genera.
Numbers
143 species in North America (
nearctica.com)
more than 2,000 species in 41 subgenera worldwide
Identification
antennae with 12 flagellomeres; radial sectorial vein with two branches
Adults in the subgenus/genus Geranomyia 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)
