Atelestidae

Atelestidae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Atelestidae: /ˌætəˈlɛstɪdiː/

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Summary

Atelestidae is a family of flies in the superfamily Empidoidea. It consists of four genera and was established as a separate family in 1983. The family is recognized as likely monophyletic, though further studies may alter the classification of its genera. Atelestidae includes both ancient fossil species and recent species found in diverse locations, including Namibia and Brazil.

Physical Characteristics

Small (2–3 mm) greyish-dusted flies with a symmetrical male terminalia without rotation. The costa ends at or near the first and second medial vein (M1+2).

Identification Tips

Distinguished from Ragadidae by a costa that ends at or near the first and second medial vein (M1+2), and from Empididae by having the prosternum separated from the proepisternum.

Habitat

Disjunct distribution in the Holarctic and southern Neotropical regions (Chile).

Distribution

Found in the Holarctic and southern Neotropical regions (Namibia and Brazil).

Evolution

Atelestidae is the most basal family of the living Empidoidea, forming the sister group to the remaining members of the group.

Similar Taxa

Tags

  • Diptera
  • Empidoidea
  • Atelestidae