Stretched-foot Flies

Tanypezidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Superfamily: Nerioidea
Family: Tanypezidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tanypezidae: /ˌtænɪˈpɛzɪdiː/

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Summary

Tanypezidae, also known as stretched-foot flies, is a small family of acalyptrate Diptera that comprises approximately 70 species across five genera, primarily found in the New World. This family is characterized by their distinctive morphology, including long legs and specific wing vein structures. They are not well-studied, and their ecological roles and life histories are still largely unknown.

Physical Characteristics

Species of Tanypezidae are relatively large with semispherical heads and stout bodies supported by long, thin legs. The head and thorax are typically very dark with contrasting silver or golden-haired stripes and spots. They exhibit a specific wing venation pattern where veins R4+5 and M1 converge at the apex, and they lack vibrissae and have setulae on the upper surface of vein R1, as well as a large, flat ocellar disc behind the ocelli.

Identification Tips

Look for their characteristic long, thin legs and very dark body with contrasting hair patterns. The specific wing venation can help distinguish them from similar families like Neriidae and Micropezidae.

Habitat

Often found in humid deciduous woodlands around low vegetation, typically near running water.

Distribution

Most species are found in the New World, particularly in North and South America. Two species of the genus Tanypeza are noted in North America, while Neotanypeza, with 26 species, is predominantly neotropical.

Conservation Status

Rare and poorly known in the northeastern United States.

Ecosystem Role

Little is known about the arthropod's specific role in the ecosystem, but they are part of the decomposition process and may serve as prey for other wildlife.

Evolution

The family was redefined recently, with all other neotropical tanypezid genera synonymized under Neotanypeza. The evolutionary relation to its sister family, Strongylophthalmyiidae, suggests a divergence influenced by geographical factors, as the latter is mostly found in East Asia.