Nemestrinidae

Pronunciation
/nem-uh-strin-uh-dee/
Category
Taxonomy
Singular
Nemestrinid
Plural
Nemestrinidae

Definition

A family of flies (order Diptera) known for their long proboscis and often brightly colored bodies which they use to feed on nectar from flowers.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'nemos', meaning 'pasture' or 'forest', and 'strin', meaning 'fly'.

Example

Nemestrinidae are often observed hovering around flowers, using their long proboscises to extract nectar.

Related Terms

  • Diptera
  • Tangle-veined flies