Cypselosomatidae

Definition

A family of true flies (order Diptera) in the superfamily Nerioidea, closely related to the stilt-legged flies (Micropezidae). These small, slender flies are characterized by reduced wing venation and elongated legs. Some species occupy specialized microhabitats, including bat caves where they are associated with guano deposits.

Etymology

From Greek kypselos (a type of swallow or martin, referring to the cave-dwelling habit) + soma (body), with the family suffix -idae.

Example

Cypselosomatidae species found in Neotropical bat caves demonstrate convergent ecological adaptations with other dipteran guano specialists, including reduced pigmentation and elongated appendages.

Related Terms

• Micropezidae
• Diptera
• Nerioidea
• guano ecology
• cave-adapted arthropods
• true flies

Usage Notes

The family contains relatively few described species and is often overlooked in general dipteran surveys. Specialists distinguish Cypselosomatidae from the superficially similar Micropezidae by details of head structure and wing venation. The family's association with bat guano is documented for some species but should not be assumed universal across the group.