Fruit Flies

Tephritidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Superfamily: Tephritoidea
Family: Tephritidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tephritidae: //tɛˈfrɪtɪˌdeɪ//

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

Images

Bactrocera occipitalis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Toxotrypana curvicauda by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Bactrocera decumanus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Tephritidae, or tephritid fruit flies, are a diverse family of small to medium-sized flies known for their colorful and patterned wings. With nearly 5,000 described species, they play significant roles in various ecosystems, particularly through their larvae that feed on plant tissues. However, many species are also economically important as pests of fruit and vegetables, highlighting a dual role in agriculture as both pests and potential agents for biological control.

Physical Characteristics

Small to medium-sized flies (2.5–10 mm) that are often colorful, usually have patterned wings. The subcostal vein curves forward at a right angle, and the anal cell has an acute distal projection. The body of the larva varies from white to yellowish or brown, with a posterior end that can be black.

Identification Tips

Tephritids can be identified by their distinct wing patterns, which may include stripes, splotches, or spots. Unlike Drosophilidae, many tephritids exhibit elaborate wing markings. The structure of the subcosta, which bends at a right angle, is also a key identifier.

Habitat

Found in a wide range of habitats globally, often associated with fruit-bearing and flowering plants where their larvae can develop.

Distribution

Globally distributed; found in all biogeographic realms.

Diet

The larvae primarily feed on the flesh of fruits and vegetables, developing inside various plant tissues.

Life Cycle

The larvae overwinter in the soil. They hatch from eggs deposited in the plant tissue and develop within the host plant before emerging.

Reproduction

Females use a telescopic ovipositor to deposit eggs in living, healthy plant tissue. Males and females court and mate on the surface of host plants.

Predators

Natural enemies include parasitoid wasps from the genera Diapriidae and Braconidae.

Ecosystem Role

Phytophagous larvae contribute to plant population dynamics and are integral to ecosystem functions, with some species taking part in gall formation on plants.

Economic Impact

Some species are significant agricultural pests, damaging crops and causing economic losses. Notably, Bactrocera species are notorious for their impact on fruit cultivation.

Evolution

The taxonomy of Tephritidae is continuously evolving due to new descriptions and genetic analyses regarding species and relationships within the family.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Tephritidae are often confused with Drosophilidae due to the common name of 'fruit flies', although they are distinctly different families based on morphology and ecology.