Tipulidae
Pronunciation: [Ti·PUL⋅i·dae]
Common Name: Crane Flies
Description: With over 1,450 species, crane flies compose the largest family in the Diptera order. They have long, fragile legs, noticeably long halteres, and a V-shaped suture that bisects the dorsal side of the thorax. They are unique to the order with two anal veins that reach out to the wing margin and a radius that has less than five branches. These insects are abundant in damp areas or where there is lush vegetation. Specialized feeding patterns exist within the subfamilies, such as a long slender proboscis that is used to feed on nectar.
Spot ID Key Characters:
- Long slender legs
- “V”-shaped suture transects dorsal side of thorax
- Conspicuous halteres
Return To:
Order: Diptera
Picture Gallery:
