Introduction and Characteristics
Species of the Family Tipulidae, also known as crane flies,
make up the largest family in the Order Diptera which are the
true flies. In North America alone, more than 1,500 species have
been identified. The genus Tipula contains roughly 495
terrestrial species (Koenig and Young 2007). The crane flies
are commonly mistaken for mosquitoes, but most are actually
much larger.
Unlike mosquitoes that feed on blood, crane flies do not feed
on blood (Nutrition for more information)
(Chew et al. 2008). They
are characterized by elongated bodies, a pair of narrow wings,
and long, legs (Young 2008). The crane flies are also called
Daddy-long-legs but do not use their legs for walking, but for
hanging from plants. Their hind wings are also reduced into
club-shaped halters (Chew et al. 2008).
The adults of the Order Diptera are weak fliers and are
attracted to lights (Arthur and Garrison 2004). Distinctive
features include a prominent V-Shaped suture or fold on the
dorsal side of the thorax between the wings. Males have long
feathery or toothed antennae and females have shorter
antennae. The halters are also prominent in the crane flies
(Swan and Papp 1972). An interesting trait in Tipula
submaculata is that in both sexes there are ringed antennae
(American Insects 2009). Also all crane flies lack ocelli
(Young
2008).
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