Fungus Gnats and Gall Midges
Sciaroidea
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Diptera
- Infraorder: Bibionomorpha
- Superfamily: Sciaroidea
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sciaroidea: //ˌsaɪəˈrɔɪdiə//
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Summary
Sciaroidea is a superfamily of Diptera that includes approximately 16 families and over 15,000 described species, primarily known as fungus gnats and gall midges. They are characterized by their elongated antennae and variable larval feeding habits, predominantly on fungi.
Physical Characteristics
Adults typically have long segmented antennae. Sciaridae adults have eyes that extend dorsally to form an 'eye bridge'. Cecidomyiidae adults exhibit reduced wing venation. Larvae have a well-developed head and mouthparts, with some forming plant galls having atypical features such as a very small head capsule.
Identification Tips
Observe the long segmented antennae in adults and the characteristic eye bridge in Sciaridae. Cecidomyiidae can be identified by their reduced wing structure.
Habitat
Most species inhabit forests; larvae occur in fungi, dead wood, and soil. Some live in wetlands like fens, while a few spend their entire lives in soil as wingless adults.
Diet
Typical larval diet is fungi; some species prey on invertebrates (Keroplatidae) and others form plant galls (Cecidomyiinae).
Ecosystem Role
Ecologically important as decomposers, particularly larvae that feed on fungi. Some species also have roles in plant gall formation and predation on invertebrates.
Evolution
Sciaroidea is confirmed as a monophyletic group that includes Cecidomyiidae and Ditomyiidae according to a 2016 molecular phylogenetic analysis.
Similar Taxa
Tags
- Fungus Gnats
- Gall Midges
- Diptera
- Insecta
- Nematocera