Giant Robber Flies

Promachus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Superfamily: Asiloidea
Family: Asilidae
Subfamily: Asilinae
Genus: Promachus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Promachus: /ˈproʊməkəs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Promachus rufipes by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Promachus bastardii by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Promachus truquii by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Promachus amastrus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Promachus is a genus of large robber flies known for their striking appearance and role as insect predators in various habitats. With around 22 species present in the local area and approximately 220 species globally, their distribution favors tropical regions of the Old World and western parts of the New World.

Physical Characteristics

Large robber flies with tiger-stripe pattern on abdomen; size ranges from 20-35 mm.

Identification Tips

Look for the distinctive tiger-stripe pattern on the abdomen and large size.

Habitat

Found in meadows and fields.

Distribution

Primarily found in the New World from the US to Chile; P. dimidiatus extends into Canada. In the local area, occurs mostly in the western regions with only 3 species in the Atlantic states.

Diet

Prey primarily on insects, with a significant focus on Hymenoptera.

Life Cycle

Females lay eggs on the ground near grass roots. The larvae burrow into the soil and feed on soil insects, roots, and decaying matter. Pupation occurs in an unlined cell in the soil.

Reproduction

Eggs are laid in the soil with larvae developing in the ground.

Ecosystem Role

Predators of various insects, contributing to controlling insect populations.

Cultural Significance

The name Promachus translates to 'defender' or 'champion' in Greek, referring to various figures in Greek mythology.