Title: Atherix sp. - a snipe fly, larva

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MNO: 4094
Create Date: 02-12-17
Last Edit: 03-10-10
Media Type: Image
File Type:
File Size: 1,56
Status: approved

Description: Atherix is the only aquatic genus of Athericidae. Larvae can be separated from other aquatic dipteran larvae by their robust shape, paired prolegs, lateral and dorsal spines on the body, and divergent terminal fringed processes. In the photo specimen, about 15 mm in length, one can see part of the reduced head of this brachyceran. The predacious larvae are found in streams. Little is known of Atherixs life cycle in Alberta. In other areas, the female deposits her fertilized egg in masses on tree branches overhanging the stream. Other females will add their eggs to what will eventually become a communal egg mass. When the eggs hatch, the larvae (hopefully) will drop into the water. Photograph: Cheryl Podemski

Author(s): Hugh Clifford

Keywords: | Animalia | Animalia | Arthropoda | Athericidae (=Rhagionidae) | Brachycera | Diptera | Gastropoda | Insecta | Mollusca | Prosobranchia | fringed processes | prolegs | spines |

Alberta Curriculum Keywords: None

Biology Course Keywords: None