Backomyia
Wilcox & Martin, 1957
Species Guides
5- Backomyia anomala
- Backomyia hannai(Big Bear Bandit)
- Backomyia limpidipennis(Clear-winged Bandit)
- Backomyia schlingeri(Schlinger Bandit)
- Backomyia seminoensis(Wyoming Bandit)
Backomyia is a of predatory flies in the Asilidae (robber flies), established by Wilcox and Martin in 1957. As members of the Asilidae, in this genus are aerial that capture other insects in . The genus is part of a diverse family of over 7,000 described species worldwide.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Backomyia: //ˌbæk.oʊˈmaɪ.jə//
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Identification
Identification of Backomyia requires examination of genitalic structures and other fine morphological details. The can be distinguished from other Asilidae genera by combinations of characters including facial mystax patterns, leg bristling, and wing venation, though specific diagnostic features vary among species.
Diet
As with other Asilidae, Backomyia are predatory on other insects.
Behavior
are sit-and-wait that perch on vegetation or bare ground and sally forth to capture flying insect prey. They seize prey with their spiny legs and subdue it with a piercing that injects digestive and .
Ecological Role
As predatory insects, Backomyia function as agents, regulating of other flying insects. They occupy mid-level trophic positions in .
Similar Taxa
- Other Asilidae generaMany robber fly share similar general body plans and predatory habits; precise identification requires examination of structural characters
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was established by Wilcox and Martin in 1957. The etymology of the name is not clearly documented in widely available sources.
Species diversity
The number of described in Backomyia is limited; the is not among the larger or more frequently encountered asilid genera.