Posted by Stephen on 28-08-2006 21:36
#1
My first thought just based on overall appearance was Sciaridae, but then I began to think that several things aren't right for that family.
I'm not sure what other family does fit, though.
The antennae seem funny the way they are bent. The tarsi are long. And that huge "fork" in the wing venation seems important too. But I wasn't able to figure this one out.
Size was 4.0 mm. Photographed at lights, near both woods and open areas, West Virginia USA, 26 August 2006.
Posted by Tony Irwin on 29-08-2006 00:06
#2
Your first instinct was right. It's a classic sciarid - typical venation, slightly smoky wings, head on a short neck. The antennae are a little mis-shapen - perhaps it flew too close to the lights? ;)
Posted by Stephen on 29-08-2006 00:28
#3
Ouch, singed antennae! Maybe I should invest in cool florescent bulbs instead of mercury vapor.
Thanks for the ID help, Tony, Scaridae it is.