Crane fly

Crane Fly - (Tipula)

Crane Fly wing

File:Cranefles mating.webm

A collection of crane flies hanging from their nest

Tipulidae Luc Viatour

Crane fly is a common name referring to any member of the insect family Tipulidae, which belongs to the order Diptera, more commonly known as flies. Crane flies are characterized by their slender bodies, long legs, and wingspan that can vary in size. They are often mistaken for mosquitoes, but unlike mosquitoes, most crane flies do not bite or feed on blood. The larvae of crane flies, known as leatherjackets, are found in moist soil and are known to feed on roots and decaying plant material.

Description

Crane flies have a distinctive appearance, with a body length that can range from 2 to 60 mm. They possess a pair of membranous wings and have very long legs, which are prone to breaking off. Their coloration varies from greyish-brown to dark brown. The head of a crane fly features compound eyes, and in many species, males have larger and more spherical eyes than females. The antennae are multi-segmented, contributing to their sensory abilities.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of a crane fly encompasses four stages: egg, larva (leatherjacket), pupa, and adult. Females lay eggs in moist soil or near water bodies. After hatching, the larvae feed on decaying plant material, roots, and sometimes living plants, which can make them agricultural pests. The larval stage can last from several months to a couple of years, depending on the species and environmental conditions. Pupation occurs in the soil, and adults emerge to mate, starting the cycle anew. Adult crane flies typically live only a few days, with their primary purpose being reproduction.

Habitat and Distribution

Crane flies are found worldwide, with over 15,000 species described. They inhabit a variety of environments, from aquatic to terrestrial, and are particularly common in temperate and tropical regions. Their larvae, given their need for moist conditions, are often found in wet soils, along stream banks, and in marshy areas.

Ecological Role

Crane flies play a significant role in the ecosystem. The larvae contribute to the decomposition process by feeding on decaying organic matter, thus recycling nutrients back into the soil. They also serve as an important food source for many predators, including birds, fish, and other insects. Adult crane flies, despite their short lifespan, are pollinators for some plants.

Pest Status

While crane flies are generally harmless to humans, the larvae can cause damage to lawns, pastures, and crops by feeding on roots and young plants. In some regions, this has led to their consideration as agricultural pests. However, the extent of damage is often less severe than perceived, and natural predators usually keep their populations in check.

Conservation

Most crane fly species are abundant and not of conservation concern. However, habitat destruction and pollution can impact their populations, particularly those species with specific habitat requirements. Conservation efforts focus on preserving wetlands and natural habitats to support the diversity of crane fly species and the broader ecosystem.