Carnidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Superfamily: Carnoidea
Family: Carnidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Carnidae: //ˈkɑːrnɪdiː//

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Summary

Carnidae, known as bird flies or filth flies, is a family of small black Diptera with about 93 species across 6 genera. They exhibit a variety of feeding behaviors with most being saprophagous, while certain species are associated with birds.

Physical Characteristics

Small (1–2 mm) black flies with specific features of the frons that include some orbital setae medioclinate (pointing inwards) and others lateroclinate (pointing outwards).

Identification Tips

Look for the arrangement of setae on the head; in genera like Carnus, Hemeromyia, Meoneura, and Enigmocarnus, the anterior two pairs of setae are medioclinate and the posterior two pairs are lateroclinate.

Habitat

Often found in bird nests, on dung, carrion, flowers of Apiaceae, and occasionally in bird feathers.

Distribution

Worldwide, with about 93 species in total across the family.

Diet

Most carnid flies are saprophagous, feeding on decaying organic matter, though some adults of the genus Carnus feed on the blood of birds.

Life Cycle

Details on the life cycle are not provided, but larvae have been found in various organic substrates that indicate a saprophagous lifestyle.

Ecosystem Role

Play a role in decomposition by feeding on organic material such as dung and carrion.