The following information is presented to help the user with ther morphological and taxonomic terminology used in this key.

Classification: There are currently competing theories of crane fly classification. The four family concept of crane flies (Tipuloidea; Tipulidae, Cylindrotomidae, Limoniidae, and Pediciidae) is used here.
Adult Morphology: Crane fly identifiation may be hindered by misinterpretation of morphological characters. This section offers a detailed overview of the characters important to identification and a discussion of of complications that may occure because of differing nomenclature that has been applied to these characters.
Limoniinae Genera: This section offers a diagnosis and summary information assocated with all taxa used in the key to the Limoniinae genera/subgenera.