First Report of the Invasive Crane Fly, Tipula oleracea, Associated with Turfgrass in Utah

Abstract

This is the first report of Tipula oleracea L. (the common crane fly, also marsh crane fly) in Utah. Tipulid larvae were collected from a putting green in Tooele County in fall 2012. Pupal exuvia and adult crane flies were seen flying on golf courses in Salt Lake, Davis, and Utah counties in 2013, but adults were not captured or identified as the exotic species until fall 2014. The detection of T. oleracea in Utah is somewhat surprising, given the species’ association with moist environments. A statewide survey is needed to better understand the spread and potential impact of T. oleracea on the turfgrass industry in Utah and the surrounding Intermountain West region.