Empidoidea

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Empidoidea: /ˌɛmpɪˈdɔɪdiːə/

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Summary

Empidoidea is a large, diverse superfamily of true flies that are predominantly predatory, with a significant number of species and a long evolutionary history.

Physical Characteristics

1‒15 mm in size; large compound eyes often covering almost the entire surface of the head; many have a well-developed anal lobe in the wings and/or a small but distinct anal cell.

Identification Tips

Look for predatory flies with prominent eyes and wing structures that may include anal lobes or distinct anal cells.

Habitat

Moist, temperate habitats; present in various environments across all continents except Antarctica.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution, represented on all continents except Antarctica.

Diet

Predatory; feeding on other smaller insects.

Life Cycle

Many species exhibit elaborate mating rituals and life histories often linked with freshwater environments.

Reproduction

Detailed reproductive behaviors vary by species; many have complex courtship rituals.

Ecosystem Role

Play a role in controlling pest populations through predation.

Collecting Methods

• Netting
• Light traps

Preservation Methods

• Pinned specimens
• Ethanol preservation

Evolution

Empidoidea are known to have existed since the Jurassic period and have undergone significant phylogenetic study revealing their relationships.

Similar Taxa

• Muscomorpha
• Cyclorrhapha

Misconceptions

Certain families within the group have been incorrectly classified in the past due to their close relationships and morphological similarities.

Tags

• Diptera
• Empidoidea
• flies
• arthropods
• insects