Psychodini

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Psychodini: //ˌsaɪkoʊˈdaɪnaɪ//

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Summary

The Psychodini are a tribe of small flies within the Psychodinae subfamily, commonly known as moth flies or drain flies. They inhabit various damp environments and are characterized by their aquatic or semi-terrestrial larvae and winged adults. Reproductive strategies include pheromone signaling and courtship displays.

Physical Characteristics

Adult Psychodinae are small flies that do not exceed 5–6 mm in length. Their body, legs and wings are covered in many setae, often pigmented in males, resulting in distinct color patterns. Eyes are usually reniform and connected dorsomedially by an eye-bridge. Antennae have a scape, pedicel, and 12-14 flagellomeres. Wings are ovate with 9-10 longitudinal veins and almost no crossveins. Larval segments are dorsally sclerotised with setae useful for identification and end in a tubular siphon tipped with spiracles.

Identification Tips

Species of Psychodinae are often similar in appearance but can be distinguished by the morphology of the male genitalia.

Habitat

Psychodinae are typically found in damp habitats, including leaf litter, compost, decaying wood, fungal fruiting bodies, dung, carrion, caves, drains, and sewage pipes. Larvae inhabit marginal freshwater habitats like edges of springs and streams, and they may also occur in waterlogged soils and phytotelmata.

Distribution

Globally distributed, including some subantarctic islands.

Diet

Most larvae are detritivores, consuming organic matter. Adults feed on polluted water and flower nectar.

Reproduction

Males use species-specific pheromones to locate females and engage in courtship displays, utilizing chemical cues detected by sensilla on their antennae. They exhibit visual and tactile displays during courtship.

Ecosystem Role

Detritivores in freshwater ecosystems, contributing to nutrient recycling.

Health Concerns

A few species may cause myiasis.

Tags

• Psychodini
• Diptera
• Psychodidae
• moth flies
• drain flies