Laphystiinae
Genus Guides
3Laphystiinae is a of robber flies (Asilidae) characterized by distinctive morphological features including a well-developed mystax and particular wing venation patterns. Members are predatory flies that capture other insects in . The subfamily is relatively small compared to other asilid subfamilies and has a primarily New World distribution.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Laphystiinae: //læˈfɪstiˌɪniː//
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Identification
Laphystiinae can be distinguished from other Asilidae by the presence of a complete row of strong bristles on the margin of the scutellum and specific wing venation where R4+5 is forked. The mystax is well-developed and typically composed of strong bristles. These features separate them from the more speciose Asilinae and other robber fly subfamilies.
Images
Distribution
Primarily distributed in the New World, with records from North and South America.
Diet
Predatory; captures other flying insects.
Behavior
Aerial that capture prey in using their legs.
Ecological Role
Predatory insects that contribute to regulation of other insect .
Similar Taxa
- AsilinaeMost similar ; differs in scutellar bristle arrangement and wing venation details.
- DasypogoninaeAnother robber fly ; Laphystiinae distinguished by mystax structure and scutellar features.