Xylophagidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Family: Xylophagidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Xylophagidae: //zaɪˌlɒfəˈdʒɪdiː//

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

Images

Summary

Xylophagidae, commonly known as awl-flies, is a family of flies known for their elongated bodies and predatory larvae that consume other insect larvae in decaying wood.

Physical Characteristics

Flies in this family have elongated bodies that resemble ichneumon wasps. The base of the abdomen is constricted and the antennae have three segments.

Identification Tips

Look for elongated bodies and the unique body shape similar to ichneumon wasps. Note the constricted base of the abdomen and the three-segmented antennae.

Habitat

Typically found in woodlands, larvae are located on decaying vegetation, under bark, or in decaying wood.

Distribution

Much of the world, but primarily in northern North America; absent in the Afrotropical Region.

Diet

Adults sometimes take nectar and other fluids; larvae primarily consume other insect larvae, particularly in decaying wood.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes a larval stage where they feed on other insect larvae in rotting wood.

Predators

Larvae such as those from the family may prey on bark beetle larvae.

Ecosystem Role

Larvae act as scavengers or predators, contributing to the decomposition process and dynamics within their environments.

Collecting Methods

Netting adults during flight
Searching for larvae in decaying wood

Preservation Methods

Pinning
Cleaning specimens in alcohol

Evolution

Xylophagidae is sometimes considered a sister group to the Tabanomorpha.

Similar Taxa

Tabanomorpha
Coenomyiidae
Rachiceridae

Misconceptions

Despite their name, neither the adults nor the larvae feed on wood; they are predatory or scavengers.