Lauxanioidea
Lauxanioidea
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Diptera
- Superfamily: Lauxanioidea
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lauxanioidea: //lɔːkˌsæniˈɔɪdiə//
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Summary
Lauxanioidea are a superfamily of flies that include Lauxaniidae (often with iridescent eyes), Chamaemyiidae (predatory larvae), and Celyphidae (beetle-like). They have morphological features and ecological roles including decomposers and predators.
Physical Characteristics
Small to medium-sized flies with various colors, Lauxaniidae often yellowish-brown or black; Chamaemyiidae usually silvery gray with black spots; Celyphidae resembling beetles with shiny, enlarged scutellum covering most of the abdomen.
Identification Tips
Celyphidae can be distinguished by a shiny, enlarged scutellum; Lauxaniidae have iridescent reddish/purplish or greenish eyes; Chamaemyiidae often have shiny and black appearances with silver-gray bodies and black spots.
Habitat
Larvae of most Lauxaniidae and Celyphidae feed in decaying vegetation; some species occur in bird nests.
Diet
Larvae of Lauxaniidae and Celyphidae feed on decaying vegetation; larvae of Chamaemyiidae are predators of aphids and scale insects.
Ecosystem Role
Larvae contribute to decomposition by feeding on decaying vegetation; adult lauxaniids may pollinate flowers.
Evolution
Phylogenetic analysis supports the monophyly of Lauxaniidae and Celyphidae as sister groups.
Similar Taxa
Tags
- Diptera
- Lauxanioidea
- insects
- flies
- ecology
- taxonomy