Primitive Crane Flies

Tanyderidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Infraorder: Psychodomorpha
Family: Tanyderidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tanyderidae: /tænɪˈdɛrɪdiː/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Summary

Tanyderidae, or primitive crane flies, is a family of long, thin, delicate flies that resemble crane flies. This family consists of 4 species in 2 genera in the region, with a total of 55 species in 12 genera globally. They are typically found near streams, with larvae in sandy stream margins and adult males sometimes swarming in the evenings. Fossil species are also known, indicating a long evolutionary history.

Physical Characteristics

Tanyderidae are long, thin, delicate flies with spotted wings. They resemble crane flies but can be differentiated by specific wing venation and the absence of ocelli in certain species.

Identification Tips

Can be confused with crane flies and phantom crane flies. Differentiation is possible by checking for the presence of vein 3a and the number of R veins.

Habitat

Larvae are found in sandy soil at the margins of large streams, while adults are typically found hanging from riparian vegetation near streams.

Distribution

Found in many parts of the world including North America, South America, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and various islands in the Pacific Ocean.