Author
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Woodley, Norman |
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Submitted to: Zootaxa
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 1/29/2010 Publication Date: 3/12/2010 Citation: Woodley, N.E. 2010. Parameristomerinx copelandi, a new genus and species of Afrotropical Pachygastrinae and a new generic synonym of Dolichodema Kertész (Diptera: Stratiomyidae). Zootaxa. 2397:41-47. Interpretive Summary: Many species of soldier flies are beneficial to agriculture in that their larvae help to decompose plant material, dung, and decaying animal matter, although a few species are known to attack living plants, such as grass roots. This publication describes a new genus and species found in Africa, providing information and illustrations to help identify this species. An identification key to related genera is provided to aid in identifying these flies. This work will enable scientists, quarantine workers such as those in APHIS, and others concerned with flies to identify and correctly name these insects. Technical Abstract: A new genus and species, Parameristomerinx copelandi gen. n., sp. n. (Diptera: Stratiomyidae, Pachygastrinae), from the Afrotropical Region is described from material from Kenya. This genus is similar to the Afrotropical genera Meristomerinx Enderlein and Meristomeringina James. A new generic synonym is also proposed, Nemodema Lindner, 1958 = Dolichodema Kertész, 1916, syn. n. A key is included for the six genera related to Meristomerinx. |
