Diastatidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Superfamily: Ephydroidea
Family: Diastatidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Diastatidae: //ˌdaɪəˈstætɪdiː//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Summary

Diastatidae is a family of flies known for their small size, distinct morphological characteristics, and occurrence mainly in Holarctic regions. They include genera such as Diastata and Campichoeta.

Physical Characteristics

Minute flies with grey or brown-grey body and usually maculate wings. The postvertical bristles on the head are cruciate, and vibrissae are present. The front orbital bristles are inset and upswept. The costa is interrupted near the end of Radial vein 1 and can also be near the humeral crossvein. The subcosta is incomplete, fusing with Radial vein 1 before the apex. The posterior basal wing cell and discoidal wing cell are separate. The anal cell and anal vein of wing are both present.

Identification Tips

Refer to Duda, O. (1934) and A.A. Shtakel'berg for keys to Palaearctic species. These resources need revision for accurate identification.

Habitat

Adults are found along margins of bogs, marshes, and edges of moist woodlands.

Distribution

Primarily in the Holarctic Region, with some species in the Oriental, Neotropical, and Australasian regions. Most diverse in Eurasia.

Evolution

Diastatidae were once considered by some to be part of the Ephydridae family.

Similar Taxa

Ephydridae

Misconceptions

Diastatidae were once thought to be Ephydridae, leading to classification confusion.