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Giant cranefly

Giant cranefly

Tipula maxima

A species of Tipula

The adult giant cranefly is known for its elongated, slender body and wings that span wider than most of its counterparts, allowing for an impressive flight that appears elegant and somewhat cumbersome due to its size. Uniquely, as a larva, it consumes a variety of plant materials, but upon reaching maturity, its diet changes to exclude solid food, relying solely on liquids for sustenance.

General Info About Giant cranefly
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Attributes of Giant cranefly
Colors
Brown
Gray
Habitat
Moist area; well wooded area
Adult Food Sources
None (Adults do not feed and rely on energy stored from the younger stage)
Larva Food Source
Decaying plant matter, roots, soil organic matter, small invertebrates
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
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Distribution Area of Giant cranefly
Widespread throughout the West Palaearctic.
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Life Cycle of Giant cranefly
Egg The eggs of giant cranefly are laid in moist environments and are elongated and small. The color can vary, but they are usually adapted to blend with their surroundings for protection.
Larva Emerging from the eggs, the larvae of giant cranefly are worm-like and lack true legs. They have a distinct head and may be various colors, often resembling the soil or decaying organic matter they inhabit.
Pupal After larval development, giant cranefly enters the pupal stage, where transformation occurs inside a pupa. This stage is immobile, and the pupa may be found buried in soil or under detritus.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult giant cranefly has long legs and wings. They exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males and females sometimes differing in size and abdominal shape, focusing primarily on reproduction.
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Predators of Giant cranefly Larvae
Birds, rodents, amphibians, invertebrate predators such as beetles and ants
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Predators of Adult Giant cranefly
Birds, bats, spiders, insectivorous insects such as dragonflies and robber flies
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Scientific Classification of Giant cranefly
Class
Bugs
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Order
Flies
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Genus
Tipula
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Tips for Finding Giant cranefly
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Youth Habitat of Giant cranefly
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of Giant cranefly
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Wetlands and Marshes
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Habitat Preferences of Giant cranefly Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of giant cranefly typically inhabit moist soil environments rich in decomposing organic matter, such as decaying leaves or wood - often found in forests, gardens, and meadows. Searching for these larvae involves gently excavating the upper layers of soil while carefully sifting through the organic debris. The adult giant cranefly, conversely, is frequently encountered in areas proximate to the larval habitat but tends to fly and can often be spotted in open fields, near bodies of water, or attracted to artificial lights during dusk or night. Locating adults would entail visiting such open areas during their active periods with an emphasis on twilight hours when they are most visibly in flight or resting on nearby vegetation.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Giant cranefly
The optimal time to find giant cranefly is during warm days, especially late spring to early fall, when they are most active and visible.
Are Giant cranefly harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Giant cranefly
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Hurt Plant

Giant cranefly larvae feed on plant tissues, notably the roots and stems. This feeding can stunt plant growth, reduce yield, and in severe infestations, lead to plant death. Plant vitality is compromised, making them more susceptible to diseases and adverse environmental conditions.

More Effects of Giant cranefly

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