Dactylolabis postiana
This record describes Dactylolabis postiana (species). Recorded family: Limoniidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is one of the most distinct species of the genus so far made known. It is readily distinguished from all other Nearctic species by the very heavy dark wing pattern that is in part ocelliform, with pale centers. (Alexander, 1944)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera (Flies)
- Family
- Limoniidae (Limoniid Crane Flies)
- Tribe
- Hexatomini
- Genus
- Dactylolabis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Pacific Northwest
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: "I am pleased to name this species for Mr. R. L. Post, to whom I am indebted for numerous favors in the past." (Alexander, 1944) Alexander may mean Richard L. Post, later professor of entomology at North Dakota State University.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Dactylolabis postiana. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Diptera includes over 150,000 described species of flies, mosquitoes, and midges. Mosquitoes are the deadliest animal on Earth (CDC). Malaria alone causes ~249 million cases and over 608,000 deaths annually, mostly children under 5 (WHO). Vector-borne diseases account for over 17% of all infectious diseases, causing 700,000+ deaths per year.
Ecological role of the group
Despite their disease impact, flies are critical decomposers and pollinators. Hoverflies alone pollinate hundreds of crop and wildflower species. Flies are also the primary food source for many birds, bats, and fish. Forensic entomology relies heavily on fly species for crime scene analysis.
Economic and practical significance of the group
In the U.S., vector-borne disease cases tripled between 2004-2016, with over 640,000 cases reported in that period (CDC). Tickborne diseases doubled from 22,000 to 48,000 annual reports. Globally, mosquito-borne diseases cost billions in healthcare and lost productivity.
Recorded sources for this group: WHO, CDC, PNAS. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Dactylolabis postiana (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by John F. Carr
Frequently Asked Questions About Dactylolabis postiana
What is Dactylolabis postiana?
Dactylolabis postiana is a species in the family Limoniidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Dactylolabis postiana?
This is one of the most distinct species of the genus so far made known. It is readily distinguished from all other Nearctic species by the very heavy dark wing pattern that is in part ocelliform, with pale centers. (Alexander, 1944)
Where is Dactylolabis postiana found?
Range: Pacific Northwest