Paramyia
Williston, 1897
freeloader flies
Species Guides
2Paramyia is a of small flies in the Milichiidae, commonly known as freeloader flies. The genus was established by Williston in 1897 and contains approximately 18 described . Members of this genus share the family trait of kleptoparasitic , often associating with predatory insects to feed on their kills.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Paramyia: /ˈpær.əˌmaɪ.jə/
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Identification
Paramyia are small milichiid flies that can be distinguished from related by subtle morphological features of the , wing venation, and male genitalia. Detailed identification requires examination of microscopic characters and reference to taxonomic revisions.
Images
Distribution
Recorded from the United States, including Vermont.
Host Associations
- predatory insects - kleptoparasitefreeloader flies associate with to feed on their prey remains
Behavior
Exhibits kleptoparasitic typical of the Milichiidae, following predatory insects to access food resources.
Ecological Role
Acts as a kleptoparasite in , scavenging remains of prey killed by other predatory insects.
Similar Taxa
- MilichiaBoth are of Milichiidae with similar kleptoparasitic habits; distinguished by genitalic and wing characters
- PhyllomyzaRelated in Phyllomyzinae; separation requires detailed morphological study
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was described by Samuel Wendell Williston in 1897, a prominent American dipterist. The placement in Phyllomyzinae reflects recent phylogenetic revisions of the .