Pholeomyia
Bilimek, 1867
freeloader flies
Pholeomyia is a of freeloader in the , comprising more than 30 described . The genus is notable for its myrmecophilous associations, particularly with . At least one species, P. comans, has been documented as an in nests of texana, where develop in underground detritus cavities.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pholeomyia: /ˌfoʊliˈoʊmiə/
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Identification
Members of Pholeomyia can be distinguished from other by features of the male terminalia and , though specific diagnostic characters vary among . The is part of the Milichiinae , which contains species generally lacking the reduced wing venation seen in some other milichiid subfamilies.
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Habitat
At least one (P. comans) inhabits underground nests of the texana, specifically in detritus cavities where exhausted garden substrate and nest refuse accumulate. The broader range for the is insufficiently documented.
Diet
of P. comans feed on exhausted garden substrate and nest refuse in nests. feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Atta texana - P. comans enter nests to oviposit; develop in detritus chambers
Life Cycle
P. comans has three larval . The third-stage and have been described. Puparia are formed in the nest environment. A has been reared from P. comans puparia, indicating pressure on this .
Behavior
of P. comans actively enter nests to oviposit, demonstrating a myrmecophilous lifestyle. At least three (one uropodid, two macrochelid) have been observed as phoretic on adult P. comans, suggesting transport of these between ant nests.
Ecological Role
P. comans functions as a in nests, consuming exhausted fungal substrate and nest refuse. The also serves as a for and phoretic , potentially facilitating mite between colonies.
Similar Taxa
- MilichiaBoth belong to and share freeloader habits; Pholeomyia is distinguished by male genitalic and characters, and by documented myrmecophilous associations that are less prominent in Milichia
More Details
Phoretic mite fauna
P. comans carry at least three : one uropodid and two macrochelid mites. These phoretic associations may represent commensal or mutualistic relationships that aid mite among nest environments.