Scorpionflies

Definition

Common name for insects of the order Mecoptera, especially the family Panorpidae, characterized by males with enlarged, recurved genitalia held over the abdomen resembling a scorpion's stinger, plus an elongated rostrum with chewing mouthparts at the tip. The name also applies more broadly to related families within Mecoptera, including hangingflies (Bittacidae) and snow scorpionflies (Boreidae). Adults are typically found in moist, shaded habitats and are predatory or scavenging, with larvae resembling caterpillars that inhabit soil or leaf litter.

Etymology

From the curved, stinger-like male genitalia of Panorpidae resembling a scorpion's telson

Example

Male Panorpa scorpionflies use their prominent abdominal claspers to hold females during mating, while competing males may mimic females to steal prey gifts intended for rivals.

Synonyms

• Mecoptera

Related Terms

• Mecoptera
• Hangingflies
• Snow scorpionflies
• Panorpidae
• Bittacidae
• Boreidae
• Holometabola
• rostrum

Usage Notes

Technically refers specifically to Panorpidae, but widely used for the entire order Mecoptera; specialists distinguish 'hangingflies' (Bittacidae) and 'snow scorpionflies' (Boreidae) by habit and habitat. Not true flies (Diptera)—the name reflects convergent appearance, not phylogeny. The scorpion-like posture is male-only and species-specific.