Aulacigastridae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Aulacigastridae: //ɔːˌlæksɪˈɡæstrɪdiː//

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Summary

Aulacigastridae, commonly known as sap flies, is a very small family of flies. They thrive in various habitats, specifically at slime fluxes on deciduous trees, and both adults and larvae have distinct feeding habits that contribute to their ecosystem function.

Physical Characteristics

Aulacigastrids are small black flies, approximately 2.5 mm in size. They have a rounded head, with two orbital bristles on each side of the frons, anterior orbital bristles directed forward, and well-developed vibrissae. The mesonotum carries two pairs of dorsocentral bristles. The costa of the wings is interrupted near the subcosta, while the posterior basal wing cell and discoidal wing cell are fused, and the anal vein does not reach the margin of the wings.

Identification Tips

Identification keys for Palaearctic species are available but require revision. The absence of postvertical and ocellar bristles and the characteristic wing structure are important identifying features.

Habitat

Aulacigastridae are found in association with slime fluxes and wounds of deciduous trees.

Distribution

They are found across various ecoregions worldwide, including the West Palaearctic, Nearctic, and Australasian/Oceanian regions.

Diet

Adults feed on nectar and other fermenting substances, while larvae feed on the sap of deciduous and coniferous trees and on micro-organisms within the sap.

Ecosystem Role

As sap flies, they play a role in the decomposition process by breaking down plant material and may aid in the recycling of nutrients within their ecosystem.

Evolution

The family Stenomicridae was formerly included in Aulacigastridae until its reclassification by Papp in 1984.

Similar Taxa

• Stenomicridae

Tags

• Aulacigastridae
• Diptera
• sap flies
• entomology