Camillidae

Definition

A family of minute flies (Diptera) comprising five described genera. Members are small-bodied, typically found in association with decaying organic matter, and represent a relatively obscure lineage within the Brachycera.

Etymology

Example

Camillid flies are occasionally recovered in forensic entomology samples from decomposing substrates, though their small size and rearing difficulty make them less frequently cited than larger calyptrate families.

Related Terms

• Diptera
• Brachycera
• Muscidae
• Fanniidae
• Forensic entomology
• saprophagous

Usage Notes

The family's placement within the higher Diptera has been revised historically; it is currently treated within the superfamily Muscoidea. The five genera are poorly represented in collections due to their minute size and specialized microhabitat preferences. Not to be confused with similarly named taxa in other kingdoms.