Diopsoidea
Family Guides
2Diopsoidea is a small but diverse superfamily of acalyptrate muscoid flies with distribution, particularly abundant in tropical regions. The group has experienced taxonomic revision, with Strongylophthalmyiidae and Tanypezidae now placed in Nerioidea. The superfamily includes such as Diopsidae (stalk-eyed flies), Psilidae, and Syringogastridae.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Diopsoidea: /daɪˌɒpˈsɔɪdiə/
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Identification
Distinguished from other acalyptrate superfamilies by the combination of: well-sclerotised ; deflexed or elbowed (or swollen as alternative); ocellar position near vertex; lack of katepisternal setae; and specific wing venation patterns (R2+3 and R4+5 subparallel, anal similar to subcostal cell).
Images
Appearance
have three body segments (, , ), three pairs of legs, and one pair of wings. Diagnostic features include: well-sclerotised ; usually deflexed to strongly elbowed (if not, then either fore or hind is entirely swollen); ocelli positioned near the vertex; absence of katepisternal setae; wing R2+3 and R4+5 subparallel or slightly convergent apically; and wing anal comparable in size to subcostal cell.
Distribution
, with greatest diversity and in tropical regions.
Life Cycle
Complete with four stages: , larva, pupa, and .
Similar Taxa
- NerioideaFormerly included Strongylophthalmyiidae and Tanypezidae, which have been moved to Nerioidea; taxonomic boundaries have been revised.
- Other acalyptrate superfamiliesDiopsoidea is distinguished by specific combinations of facial sclerotisation, antennal position, ocellar placement, setal reduction, and wing venation.
More Details
Taxonomic instability
constituency of Diopsoidea has been subject to revision; Strongylophthalmyiidae and Tanypezidae were formerly included but are now placed in Nerioidea.