Mecoptera

Skorpionsfliege Panorpa communis male full (cropped)

Juracimbrophlebia ginkgofolia

Jurassipanorpa sticta holotype

Dinokanaga andersoni holotype SR 01-06-01

Cimbrophlebia brooksi Holotype SR 06-20-05 B

Eorpa elverumi SRUI 08-07-07 A Holotype

Mecoptera are an order of insects that are characterized by their elongated bodies, membranous wings, and distinctive elongated heads with beak-like mouthparts. They are commonly known as scorpionflies, named after the males of some species which have enlarged genitals that resemble the stinger of a scorpion. However, it is important to note that they are harmless to humans. Mecoptera includes several families, among which the Panorpidae (common scorpionflies), Bittacidae (hangingflies), and a few others are the most well-known.

Description

Mecoptera insects are medium-sized, with body lengths ranging from 2 to 35 mm. They possess two pairs of wings, with the front wings being larger than the hind wings. The wings are often patterned and held roof-like over the body when at rest. Their most distinctive feature is their elongated head, which extends into a beak-like structure housing the mouthparts. These mouthparts are adapted for chewing and are used for feeding on dead or dying insects, plant material, and sometimes pollen.

Habitat and Distribution

Mecoptera are found worldwide, from tropical to temperate regions. They prefer moist and shaded habitats, such as forests and meadows, where they can be found on leaves, flowers, and under debris. Their distribution is more abundant in temperate regions compared to tropical ones.

Life Cycle and Behavior

The life cycle of Mecoptera includes complete metamorphosis, with egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. The larvae are generally terrestrial and resemble caterpillars, feeding on decaying vegetation and other organic matter. Pupation occurs in the soil or in hidden locations near the soil surface. Adults are mostly predatory or scavenge on dead animals, contributing to the decomposition process.

Mating behavior in Mecoptera is unique, with males often presenting nuptial gifts (such as dead insects) to females in exchange for mating opportunities. This behavior is especially prominent in the family Panorpidae.

Evolutionary Significance

Mecoptera are considered to be of significant evolutionary interest as they are closely related to other insect orders such as Diptera (flies) and Siphonaptera (fleas). Fossil records indicate that Mecoptera were much more diverse in the past, with their history dating back to the Permian period. Their evolutionary relationship with other insects helps in understanding the phylogenetic development of these groups.

Conservation

While many species of Mecoptera are not currently considered endangered, their reliance on specific habitats makes them vulnerable to habitat destruction and climate change. Conservation efforts are important to preserve their diverse habitats to ensure the survival of these unique insects.

See Also

• Insect morphology
• Pollination
• Decomposition