The history and current state of cluster flies (Diptera: Polleniidae: Pollenia) in North America, with new Canadian provincial records

We provide a thorough historical account of the genus Pollenia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 (Diptera: Polleniidae) in North America through published records beginning in 1849. From this, we have gleaned insights into their presence on this continent, how they were perceived as pests, and studies of their biology to better frame current work on this genus. Further, we report on our own study of Pollenia spp. distribution across Canada from our collection of 2211 specimens that include all six North American species collected in seven provinces between 2011 and 2013. We report first provincial records for Pollenia angustigena Wainwright, 1940 and P. labialis Robineau-Desvoidy, 1863. We also discuss knowledge gaps and provide suggestions for future research.

Automated summary

This study provides a comprehensive historical account of the genus Pollenia in North America, including its presence and perception as pests, as well as its biology. The researchers also report on their own study of the distribution of Pollenia species in Canada, including two new provincial records. Finally, suggestions for future research and knowledge gaps are discussed.