Loxocera collaris
This record describes Loxocera collaris (species). Recorded family: Psilidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wing unmarked. Pedicel (2nd antennal segment) shorter than high. Arista short pubescent. Distinguished from the similar western species L. microps by its longer antennae (first flagellomere about twice as long as the face or more), the narrow parafacial, and a distinct posteroventral apical bristle on the hind tibia.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Northeastern North America, south through Appalachians to NC-TN; western US from MT-ID-WA south to CA; also Durango, MX at high elevations
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Loxocera collaris. 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 Loxocera collaris (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Brad Barnd; Additional contributions by Chris Angell
Frequently Asked Questions About Loxocera collaris
What is Loxocera collaris?
Loxocera collaris is a species in the family Psilidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Loxocera collaris?
Wing unmarked. Pedicel (2nd antennal segment) shorter than high. Arista short pubescent. Distinguished from the similar western species L. microps by its longer antennae (first flagellomere about twice as long as the face or more), the narrow parafacial, and a distinct posteroventral apical bristle on the hind tibia.
Where is Loxocera collaris found?
Range: Northeastern North America, south through Appalachians to NC-TN; western US from MT-ID-WA south to CA; also Durango, MX at high elevations