Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Pneumia cf nubila

Posted by Gunnar M Kvifte on 18-11-2012 20:52
#2

The rhinoceros-like hair patch in the face is present in males of several species of Pneumia, most notably P. nubila which has a specialized frontofacial organ to make the hair patch appear bigger than it is. Presumably it is a sexual character used in courtship. Similar organs are present as patches of erect elongate hairs in P. trivialis and P. mutua; probably the character can be found in many other Pneumia as well.

I don't know which species this is. I would guess P. nubila, but I will not say this for certain unless provided with a specimen.

Good photo, by the way!