Tachydromiini
Tachydromiini
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Diptera
- Superfamily: Empidoidea
- Family: Hybotidae
- Subfamily: Tachydromiinae
- Tribe: Tachydromiini
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tachydromiini: /tæˌkɪdroʊˈmaɪɪnaɪ/
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Images
Summary
Tachydromiini is a diverse tribe within the family Hybotidae, characterized by their predatory habits and adapted morphology for hunting in various environments.
Physical Characteristics
Members of the tribe Tachydromiini are characterized by elongated bodies typical of hybotid flies, with long legs adapted for running and jumping.
Identification Tips
Look for slender bodies and long legs. The presence of large compound eyes is also a key identifying feature.
Habitat
Tachydromiini are often found in various habitats, including moist environments such as near streams and marshes where they can be seen hunting on vegetation.
Distribution
Primarily distributed in temperate and tropical regions worldwide, with various genera found in different ecosystems.
Diet
Predominantly carnivorous, these flies feed on smaller insects or other arthropods which they hunt actively.
Life Cycle
Tachydromiini undergo complete metamorphosis, with a life cycle consisting of egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Eggs are usually laid in moist environments where larvae can develop; specific reproductive behaviors and parental care vary by genus.
Predators
Various birds, other insects, and predatory arthropods may prey upon Tachydromiini.
Ecosystem Role
Tachydromiini play an important role in controlling populations of smaller insects, acting as natural pest controllers.
Collecting Methods
- Net sweeping in appropriate habitats
- Light trapping at night
- Using bait to attract specific species
Preservation Methods
- Freezing specimens for short-term storage
- Pinning for long-term display
- Ethanol preservation for genetic studies
Evolution
Tachydromiini share common ancestry with other tribes within the Hybotidae family, exhibiting evolutionary adaptations suited for their predatory lifestyle.
Misconceptions
Some may confuse Tachydromiini with non-predatory flies due to their similar appearance to common house flies or other Diptera.
Tags
- Diptera
- Hybotidae
- Predatory Flies
- Tachydromiini
- Ecology