Pelecorhynchidae
Pelecorhynchidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Diptera
- Infraorder: Tabanomorpha
- Family: Pelecorhynchidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pelecorhynchidae: /ˌpɛlɛkoʊˈrɪnkiˌdeɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Summary
Pelecorhynchidae is a small family of flies consisting of 8 species in 2 genera in North America, with about 50 species globally. Adults primarily feed on nectar, while larvae are found in moist environments and feed on other invertebrates.
Habitat
Saturated soil of swamps or stream banks.
Distribution
Holarctic (mostly North America), Chile, Australia.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar; larvae prey on other invertebrates, including earthworms.
Ecosystem Role
Larvae feed on earthworms and other invertebrates, contributing to nutrient cycling in wetland habitats.
Evolution
Pelecorhynchidae is probably sister to Athericidae and Tabanidae but may not be monophyletic.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Their elevation to family rank has been controversial.
Tags
- Pelecorhynchidae
- flies
- Holarctic
- nectar feeders
- wetland larvae