Predatory Fungus Gnats

Keroplatidae

Classification

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

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Keroplatidae: //ˌkɛrəˈplætɪˌdiː//

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Images

Summary

Keroplatidae, or Predatory Fungus Gnats, comprise a diverse group of small flies known for their unique life cycles and habitat preferences; they include bioluminescent larvae that spin webs to capture food. About 950 species are identified, all primarily linked to dark, damp environments where certain fungi thrive.

Physical Characteristics

Small flies with a long beak (in some genera). Some members exhibit bioluminescence in their larvae, producing a blue-green light.

Identification Tips

Look for larvae in damp, dark areas, particularly under bracket fungi, or in caves. Adult flies are typically found in shadowy, humid conditions and may resemble wasps in some brightly colored species.

Habitat

Primarily forested areas, often in damp habitats where fungi are present; also found in caves and under overhanging rocks.

Distribution

Approximately 950 described species worldwide, with higher diversity in forested regions; three genera of bioluminescent larvae are found in New Zealand, Australia, and North America.

Diet

Larvae can be predaceous, feeding on small invertebrates, or mycophagous, feeding on fungi. Some species cannibalize pupae of their own kind.

Life Cycle

Eggs hatch into larvae that are either predaceous or mycophagous and spin webs for capturing food. Adult flies are generally crepuscular to nocturnal.

Predators

Predaceous species may have invertebrates as potential predators, though specific predator-prey relationships are not detailed.

Ecosystem Role

Larvae play a role in controlling populations of small invertebrates and fungi, thus contributing to both predator-prey dynamics and fungal ecology.

Cultural Significance

Bioluminescent larvae have garnered interest for their unique light-producing abilities and presence in folklore and ecological studies.

Collecting Methods

Malaise traps
Sweeping vegetation
Collecting from under overhanging rocks

Preservation Methods

Pinned specimens
Alcohol preservation

Evolution

The fossil record indicates the family dates back to the Cretaceous period, showcasing a long evolutionary history with some members exhibiting separate evolutionary paths for bioluminescence.