Nemotelus

[[File:Nemotelus June 2010-2.jpg|thumb

Nemotelus pantherinus lateral view

Nemotelus is a genus of flies belonging to the family Stratiomyidae, commonly known as soldier flies. The genus was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758, making it one of the earlier recognized genera within its family. Nemotelus species are characterized by their distinctive appearance, which includes a robust body, often with metallic coloring, and their unique wing venation pattern that distinguishes them from other Stratiomyidae.

Description

Members of the Nemotelus genus typically exhibit a slender body shape with a length ranging from 5 to 10 mm. They possess a distinctive wing pattern, which is crucial for species identification. The coloration of these flies can vary significantly across species, from non-metallic black or yellow to brightly metallic green or blue. Their antennae are short and feature a three-segmented style, which is a common trait among many Stratiomyidae.

Habitat and Distribution

Nemotelus species are found in a wide range of habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and forests. They are primarily distributed across the Palearctic, Nearctic, Afrotropical, and Oriental regions. These flies are often observed near bodies of water, such as rivers and lakes, where their larvae likely develop.

Biology

The biology of many Nemotelus species remains poorly understood. However, it is known that the larvae of some species are aquatic or semi-aquatic, living in moist environments where they likely feed on decaying organic matter or microorganisms. Adults are typically seen flying from late spring to early autumn and are often found visiting flowers, suggesting that they may play a role in pollination.

Systematics

The genus Nemotelus is part of the family Stratiomyidae, which encompasses a diverse group of flies known for their soldier-like appearance. Within the genus, there are numerous species, with taxonomy that is still under revision due to the complexity of their morphological features and the need for molecular data to resolve their phylogenetic relationships.

Conservation

There is currently limited information on the conservation status of Nemotelus species. Like many insects, their populations are likely affected by habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts for these flies would benefit from further research into their ecology, distribution, and the roles they play in their ecosystems.