Apterachalcus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Apterachalcus |
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| Apterachalcus borboroides, male (body length about 1.2 mm) | |
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Acropsilus borboroides Oldroyd, 1955 |
Apterachalcus borboroides is a very special type of fly found only in New Zealand. It belongs to a group of flies called Dolichopodidae, also known as long-legged flies. What makes this fly unique is that it's the only known species in its entire group, or genus, called Apterachalcus.
This tiny fly was first discovered and described by a scientist named Harold Oldroyd in 1955. He initially thought it belonged to a different group of flies. However, later in 1991, another scientist, Daniel J. Bickel, realized it was so different that it needed its very own genus.
Meet the Wingless Fly: Apterachalcus borboroides
Apterachalcus borboroides is quite unusual because it doesn't have wings! Most flies use wings to fly, but this one can't. It's also a bit flat on its sides, which makes it look a little like a flea. This unique shape helps it move around in its environment.
Where Does This Special Fly Live?
This fascinating fly has been found in some very specific places in New Zealand. It lives on the Auckland Islands and Campbell Island, which are part of the New Zealand Subantarctic Islands. These islands are located far south of the main New Zealand landmass.
Scientists have also found this fly, or very similar types, in high mountain areas. This includes places above the Paparoa Range and on Stewart Island. Finding them in such different places shows how adaptable these tiny creatures can be.
How Did it Get its Name?
The name Apterachalcus tells us something important about the fly. The first part, apter-, comes from the Greek word apteros, which means "wingless." This perfectly describes this fly's most noticeable feature.
The second part of the name, Achalcus, comes from the name of another group of flies that are closely related to Apterachalcus borboroides. So, its name literally means "wingless Achalcus-like fly."
