Tipula inusitata
This record describes Tipula inusitata (species). Recorded family: Tipulidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Although related to Tipula (Lunatipula) aurantionota Alexander and T. (L.) usitata Doane, the present fly is readily told by the structure of the male hypopygium... (Alexander, 1949, p.18) This page is based on examination of this male specimen by Jim Hogue (CSU Northridge):
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
California, Stanford University (Holotype)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Tipula (Lunatipula) inusitata Alexander, 1949, allied to usitata Doane, 1901. (see Alexander, 1949)
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Tipula inusitata. 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 Tipula inusitata (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Hartmut Wisch
Frequently Asked Questions About Tipula inusitata
What is Tipula inusitata?
Tipula inusitata is a species in the family Tipulidae, within the order Diptera.
How do you identify Tipula inusitata?
Although related to Tipula (Lunatipula) aurantionota Alexander and T. (L.) usitata Doane, the present fly is readily told by the structure of the male hypopygium... (Alexander, 1949, p.18)
Where is Tipula inusitata found?
Range: California, Stanford University (Holotype)