Carcross Dune Tachinid
Germaria angustata
Conservation Concern 2
In Canada, the Dune Tachinid Fly is restricted to a few active dunes in southwestern Yukon. It is presumed to be a parasite of the larva of a dune moth. This fly is just one of a group of species that are found only in these dunes at the edge of unglaciated Beringia—others include the Baikal Sedge, a small gelechiid moth, a stiletto fly, and other tachinid flies.
Description 2
The Dune Tachinid Fly is a black, bristly, medium-sized fly (about 9 mm long). The second segment of the antennal branch (arista) has a distinctive elbowed appearance.
Typical Habitat 2
Active or semi-stabilized dunes or smaller sand blowouts with scattered grasses, sedges, and other vegetation. In Yukon, the habitat always includes some grass or grasses.
Potential Threats 2
At the Carcross dunes, increasing recreational all-terrain vehicle use has caused a decline in habitat by eliminating grasses in heavy use areas. The Carcross Dune habitat is also threatened by residential housing and road developments. A potential, but significant threat is invasive species that have the ability to quickly stabilize dunes— for example, Altai Wild Rye and White Sweet-clover. Natural succession will probably continue to eliminate more open dune area, especially at the large Alsek dunes in Kluane National Park Reserve.
Did You Know? 2
All tachinid fly larvae are parasitic on other insects, usually moth caterpillars. The fly family name Tachinidae comes from the Greek tachys, meaning “fast,” a reference to the speedy flight of these flies.
Sources and Credits
- (c) L.G. Johanson, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA), uploaded by L.G. Johanson
- (c) L.G. Johanson, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)
More Info
Range Map
iNaturalist.ca Map
| Animal | Insect |
|---|---|
| Insect | Flies (Diptera) |
| Color | black |
