Asiloidea

Definition

A large superfamily of true flies (order Diptera) within the suborder Brachycera, characterized by generally robust bodies, strong legs adapted for perching and prey capture, and a cosmopolitan distribution. Members exhibit diverse life histories including predation and parasitoidism.

Etymology

Example

The Asiloidea superfamily encompasses both the predatory robber flies (Asilidae) and the bee flies (Bombyliidae), whose larvae parasitize other insects; these families share morphological features such as a concave face and well-developed mystax.

Related Terms

• Diptera
• Brachycera
• Asilidae
• Bombyliidae
• mystax
• superfamily

Usage Notes

Asiloidea is a well-established superfamily within the lower Brachycera, though precise familial composition varies among classifications. The group is united by larval and adult morphological characters rather than uniform ecology—members range from active aerial predators to endoparasitoids. Not to be confused with the family Asilidae (robber flies), which is contained within this superfamily.