Bombyliomyia
Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889
Species Guides
1Bombyliomyia is a of tachinid flies ( Tachinidae) established by Brauer & Bergenstamm in 1889. The genus contains approximately ten described distributed primarily in the Neotropical region. Tachinid flies in this genus are , with larvae developing inside other insects. The genus name references a superficial resemblance to bee flies (Bombyliidae).
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Bombyliomyia: /bɔm.bi.liˈoʊ.mi.jə/
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Identification
-level identification within Bombyliomyia relies on examination of male terminalia and details of chaetotaxy (bristle arrangement). The can be distinguished from related Ernestiini genera by characters of the , including facial profile and structure. Coloration varies among species, with some showing distinctive pale or dark head markings.
Distribution
Neotropical region, with records from Central and South America. Specific countries of occurrence are not comprehensively documented in available sources.
Life Cycle
As tachinid flies, in this have larvae that develop within insects. Specific host relationships for Bombyliomyia species are not well documented.
Ecological Role
, contributing to regulation of insect . Specific ecological impacts have not been quantified.
Similar Taxa
- BombyliusSimilar name and convergent resemblance to bee flies; Bombylius is in Bombyliidae, not Tachinidae, and has a long for nectar feeding rather than the reduced mouthparts typical of tachinids.
- Other Ernestiini generaShare tribal placement within Tachininae; require examination of male genitalia and characters for definitive separation.
More Details
Etymology
The name combines 'Bombylius' (referring to bee flies) with the suffix '-myia' (fly), alluding to the bee fly-like appearance of these tachinids.
Taxonomic history
The was described by Brauer & Bergenstamm in 1889. have been described by various authors including Wulp, Macquart, Townsend, Williston, Engel, and Thompson, spanning from 1846 to 1963.