Bolitophilidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Infraorder: Bibionomorpha
Superfamily: Sciaroidea
Family: Bolitophilidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Bolitophilidae: /ˌboʊ.lɪˈtɒf.ɨl.ɪˌdae/

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Summary

Bolitophilidae is a family of Diptera in the superfamily Sciaroidea, with Bolitophila being the sole living genus. This family was formerly a subfamily of Mycetophilidae and comprises around 60 species worldwide.

Physical Characteristics

Small size, ranging from 6–9 mm.

Habitat

Shady and humid environments, often found in the undergrowth of mixed forests near watercourses.

Distribution

Approximately 40 Palaearctic species and about 20 Nearctic species, with three species from the Oriental region (specifically Taiwan).

Diet

Larvae are mycetophagous, living on decaying wood or organic debris overgrown by fungal plant substrates.

Life Cycle

Larvae pupate inside the fungal mycelium found in soil or litter.

Evolution

The oldest fossils of Bolitophila date back to the Eocene; it is closely related to the extinct genus Mangas from the Lower Cretaceous.

Similar Taxa

Mangas (extinct genus)