Mydas Flies

Mydidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Superfamily: Asiloidea
Family: Mydidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Mydidae: /ˈmɪdɪˌdiː/

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Summary

The Mydidae, or Mydas flies, are a family of large flies known for their mimicry of wasps and their role as pollinators. They are primarily found in arid regions, with larval habits that vary across species.

Physical Characteristics

Mydids are medium-sized to very large flies, 9–60 mm in body length. The abdomen is long and cylindrical, slightly tapered apically in males, and widest at segment four in females. They have prominent, clubbed antennae and distinctive wing venation.

Identification Tips

Look for large flies that may resemble wasps, particularly in the hind limb structure. The hind leg is significantly longer and stronger than the middle and fore legs, and the hind femur usually bears ventral spines.

Habitat

Primarily found in arid and semiarid regions but can also occur in forests and other habitats. Larvae are commonly found in decaying wood or soil.

Distribution

Predominantly tropical/subtropical with the greatest diversity in Subsaharan Africa. In the U.S., most species are found in the southwestern region, with some like Mydas clavatus being widespread in the eastern areas.

Diet

Adults are known to be flower visitors and may act as pollinators, particularly attracted to plants like Rattlesnake master (Eryngium yuccifolium). Larvae may be predatory, feeding on beetle larvae or detritivorous larvae.

Life Cycle

Larvae typically take two or three years to mature, with adults often having a short lifespan.

Ecosystem Role

Adults serve as pollinators, while larvae contribute to decomposing natural materials, playing a role in nutrient cycling.

Economic Impact

Some larvae may act as potential biocontrol agents for agricultural pests such as white grubs.

Evolution

The oldest known member of the family, Cretomydas, dates back to the Early Cretaceous (Aptian) and suggests a long evolutionary history with close affinities to the Diochlistinae subfamily.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Mydidae are sometimes mistakenly spelled as 'Mydaidae'.