Corydalus luteus
This record describes Corydalus luteus (species). Recorded family: Corydalidae. Recorded order: Megaloptera.
Identification and Appearance
South Texas species distinguished from its allies by the solidly tan color of the head and thorax, lacking the pale markings found in C. cornutus and C. texanus . The many pale spots in the wings are not margined by a dark wing. Males have very long mandibles like the males of C. cornutus . ♀ ♂
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Megaloptera (Alderflies, Dobsonflies, and Fishflies)
- Family
- Corydalidae (Dobsonflies and Fishflies)
- Subfamily
- Corydalinae
- Genus
- Corydalus (Dobsonflies)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Ranges from south Texas through Mexico to Central and perhaps South America. iNaturalist shows reputably confirmed records only as far north as the Austin area.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Corydalus luteus Hagen, 1861
About Alderflies, Dobsonflies, and Fishflies: the wider group
Order-level background for Megaloptera, the group containing Corydalus luteus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Megaloptera (dobsonflies, fishflies, alderflies) includes ~380 described species. Male dobsonflies have enormous mandibles up to 40mm long - longer than their entire head - used in combat with rival males.
Ecological role of the group
Dobsonfly larvae (hellgrammites) are top predators in stream ecosystems, spending 2-5 years as aquatic nymphs before pupating. They can grow up to 90mm long, making them some of the largest aquatic insect larvae in North America.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Hellgrammites (dobsonfly larvae) are prized bait for bass fishing across North America. They are also important bioindicator species for freshwater stream health monitoring.
Recorded sources for this group: Freshwater ecology research, fishing industry. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Corydalus luteus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Joshua Stuart Rose; Additional contributions by PaleoJon
Frequently Asked Questions About Corydalus luteus
What is Corydalus luteus?
Corydalus luteus is a species in the family Corydalidae, within the order Megaloptera.
How do you identify Corydalus luteus?
South Texas species distinguished from its allies by the solidly tan color of the head and thorax, lacking the pale markings found in C. cornutus and C. texanus . The many pale spots in the wings are not margined by a dark wing. Males have very long mandibles like the males of C. cornutus . ♀ ♂
Where is Corydalus luteus found?
Range: Ranges from south Texas through Mexico to Central and perhaps South America. iNaturalist shows reputably confirmed records only as far north as the Austin area.