Nematocera
Quick Summary
Nematocera is a suborder of Diptera, which includes insects like mosquitoes, fungus gnats, and crane flies. These insects are characterized by their larvae, which typically have a well-developed head and chewing mouthparts, though some have evolved to have mouth hooks instead.12
Nematocera play a role in ecosystems as a food source for various animals, including fish, amphibians, bats, spiders, and birds. Male mosquitoes, in particular, feed on nectar and contribute to pollination.3
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Diptera…fall into three large groups: Nematocera (e.g., crane flies, midges, gnats, mosquitoes), Brachycera (e.g., horse flies, robber flies
Read More…fall into three large groups: Nematocera (e.g., crane flies, midges, gnats, mosquitoes), Brachycera (e.g., horse flies, robber flies
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DipteraAnnotated classificationSuborder Nematocera Antennae consist of scape, pedicel, and flagellum with numerous similar segments; maxillary palpi with more than 3 segments, often pendulous; anal cell of wing open; larvae usually with well-defined head, mandibles horizontally opposed. Family Tipulidae (crane flies) Elongated body, wings, legs; slow-flying; larvae in…
Read MoreSuborder Nematocera Antennae consist of scape, pedicel, and flagellum with numerous similar segments; maxillary palpi with more than 3 segments, often pendulous; anal cell of wing open; larvae usually with well-defined head, mandibles horizontally opposed. Family Tipulidae (crane flies) Elongated body, wings, legs; slow-flying; larvae in…
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