Crane fly (Diptera: Tipuloidea) systematics: past, present, and future

Insect Systematics and Diversity, vol. 9

Abstract

Abstract Superfamily Tipuloidea, commonly known as true crane flies, represents a taxonomically and ecologically diverse group within Diptera. Species in this clade are easily recognized by their characteristic long-legged appearance and are widespread across terrestrial and aquatic habitats. This review synthesizes the current state of Tipuloidea systematics, providing an overview of key contributions from the past that have shaped our present understanding. We review the paleontological evidence available for this group and summarize phylogenetic studies that have explored evolutionary relationships across different taxonomic levels. Although significant progress has occurred in documenting global crane fly diversity, opportunities remain to associate conspecific life stages, undertake revisionary taxonomy, and stabilize the classification system through expanded taxon sampling and the use of new genetic markers and mitochondrial genomes in future phylogenetic analyses. Finally, we highlight priority areas for future research to enhance our understanding of Tipuloidea evolution and classification.

Authors 8

1. Matthew J. Petersen

   University of Minnesota

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota , St Paul, MN,

2. Jon K. Gelhaus

   Drexel University

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Entomology, The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University , Philadelphia, PA,

3. Pjotr Oosterbroek Aachen Naturalis Biodiversity Center

   Naturalis Biodiversity Center

   Affiliation as printed

   Naturalis Biodiversity Center , Leiden,

4. Sigitas Podėnas

   Nature Research Centre

   Affiliation as printed

   Nature Research Centre , Vilnius,

5. Virginija Podėnienė

   Vilnius University

   Affiliation as printed

   Vilnius University, Institute of Biosciences Vilnius , Vilnius,

6. Guilherme Cunha Ribeiro

   Universidade Federal do ABC

   Affiliation as printed

   Laboratório de Sistemática e Diversidade, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC , Santo Andre,

7. Daubian Santos

   Nicolaus Copernicus University

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń , Torun,

8. Xiao Zhang

   Qingdao Agricultural University

   Affiliation as printed

   College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao,