Asilidae

Guides

Ablautus
Prospectors
Ablautus is a genus of small robber flies (family Asilidae) containing approximately 14 described species. Adults measure 6–7 millimeters and inhabit arid regions of western and southwestern North America, particularly sandy areas within sagebrush communities. The genus exhibits notable mimicry relationships, with Ablautus mimus known to mimic Lestomyia sabulonum. Species were described primarily by J. Wilcox during 1935–1966, with the genus first established by Loew in 1866.
Asilidae robber-flies Diptera predatory-flies North-America arid-habitats mimicry early-spring-activity
Ablautus arnaudi
Ablautus arnaudi is a small species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Wilcox in 1966. Adults measure approximately 6–7 millimeters in length. The species exhibits sand-colored cryptic coloration and displays distinctive sexual dimorphism in facial hair coloration. Males possess bright white facial hairs and engage in elaborate courtship displays involving leg-waving and rocking movements. Like all Asilidae, this species is predatory in both adult and larval stages.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory sexual-dimorphism courtship early-spring sand-colored cryptic leafhopper-predator mystax facial-hair-dimorphism extra-oral-digestion venomous sit-and-wait-predator plains-habitat small-size 6-7-mm white-facial-hairs-male gold-facial-hairs-female leg-waving-display rocking-display Wilcox-1966 Ablautus-revision Charlotte-Herbert-Alberts Colorado eastern-plains
Ablautus californicus
Ablautus californicus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1935. The genus Ablautus is currently undergoing taxonomic revision, with this species among those being studied to clarify species boundaries and relationships. Like other Asilidae, it is presumed to be a predatory insect both in larval and adult stages. The specific epithet indicates a California distribution.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly california-endemic under-revision
Ablautus colei
Northwestern Prospector
Ablautus colei is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. It belongs to a genus of small, sand-colored predatory flies found in North America. The species is part of the 'Northwestern Prospector' group within the genus, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented. Like other Ablautus species, it likely exhibits sexual dimorphism in facial hair coloration and elaborate male courtship displays.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly North-America sand-colored sexual-dimorphism courtship-behavior poorly-known-species taxonomic-revision-needed
Ablautus coquilletti
Coquillett Prospector
Ablautus coquilletti is a species of assassin fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1935. The genus Ablautus comprises predatory flies commonly known as prospectors, characterized by their distinctive facial hair and venomous hunting behavior. This species is currently undergoing taxonomic revision as part of broader systematic studies of the genus Ablautus.
asilidae assassin-fly robber-fly predatory-fly diptera prospector coquillett
Ablautus flavipes
Yellow-legged Prospector
Ablautus flavipes is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Yellow-legged Prospector. Robber flies are predatory insects known for their aerial hunting abilities. The specific epithet flavipes refers to yellow legs, a characteristic feature of this species.
robber-fly predatory Diptera Asilidae
Ablautus linsleyi
Linsley Prospector
Ablautus linsleyi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. The genus Ablautus comprises small, sand-colored predatory flies that are often difficult to observe due to their cryptic coloration. Members of this genus are active in spring and are known for elaborate courtship behaviors. The specific epithet honors E. Gorton Linsley, a prominent American coleopterist.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory spring-active cryptic-coloration courtship-display North-America
Ablautus mimus
Arizona Prospector
Ablautus mimus is a small robber fly (family Asilidae) native to arid regions of western and southwestern North America. Adults measure approximately 6–7 millimeters and exhibit sand-colored camouflage. The species has been documented in association with sandy soils in sagebrush habitats and shows documented mimicry of Lestomyia sabulonum, another small fly species sharing its habitat. It is also known to occur alongside Cyrtopogon ablautoides in sandy desert regions.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly mimicry arid-habitat sand-colored early-spring predator North-America
Ablautus rufotibialis
Texas Prospector
Ablautus rufotibialis is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Back in 1909. Like other members of the genus Ablautus, it is a small predatory dipteran. The species epithet 'rufotibialis' refers to reddish coloration on the tibiae. Robber flies in this genus are active in early spring and exhibit distinctive courtship behaviors.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory Diptera Ablautus Texas
Ablautus schlingeri
Oso Flaco Robber Fly
Ablautus schlingeri, commonly known as the oso flaco robber fly, is a small predatory fly in the family Asilidae. The species is endemic to California and has been documented at Oso Flaco Lake and surrounding dune habitats. It faces potential threats from sand mining operations that degrade its specialized sandy habitat. The species was described by Wilcox in 1966 and remains relatively poorly known.
endemic California coastal-dunes sand-mining-threat Asilidae predatory-fly Oso-Flaco-Lake
Ablautus trifarius
Loew Prospector
Ablautus trifarius is a small robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Loew in 1866. Adults measure approximately 6–7 millimeters and are sand-colored, making them difficult to detect in their natural environment. The species is predatory in both larval and adult stages, preying on insects smaller than themselves such as leafhoppers. Males exhibit distinctive courtship behavior involving aerial displays, leg-waving, and rocking movements.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory courtship-behavior sand-colored early-spring leafhopper-predator sexual-dimorphism facial-mystax
Ablautus vanduzeei
Spot-winged Prospector
Ablautus vanduzeei is a small species of robber fly (family Asilidae) measuring approximately 6–7 millimeters in length. Adults are sand-colored and somewhat difficult to see, making them cryptic in their preferred open, sandy habitats. Males are slightly smaller and more slender than females, with bright white facial hairs; females have gold or ochre-colored facial hairs. The species is known from 18 observations on iNaturalist and is part of the genus Ablautus, which is currently undergoing taxonomic revision.
robber-fly asilidae predatory cryptic-coloration sand-habitat sexual-dimorphism North-America
Amblyonychus
Amblyonychus is a genus of robber flies (Asilidae) established by Hermann in 1921. Members of this genus are predatory flies that hunt other insects in flight. The genus contains multiple species distributed across various regions, though specific species-level information remains limited in available sources.
robber-fly predatory-fly Asilidae Diptera
Andrenosoma corallium
Andrenosoma corallium is a robber fly species in the family Asilidae, subfamily Laphriinae, described by Martin in 1966. Like other members of the subfamily Laphriinae, its larvae are presumed to prey on wood-boring beetle larvae, particularly those in families Buprestidae and Cerambycidae. The genus Andrenosoma reaches its greatest diversity in the Neotropics, with most North American species restricted to Texas and the western United States.
robber-fly asilidae laphriinae parasitoid wood-borer-predator neotropical-genus
Andrenosoma cruentum
Mangrove Chiselmouth
Andrenosoma cruentum is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Laphriinae. It belongs to a genus of predatory flies whose larvae feed on wood-boring beetle larvae. The species is found in mangrove habitats, distinguishing it from congeners that inhabit dry, sandy woodlands. Like other Andrenosoma species, adults are sit-and-wait predators that perch on exposed surfaces to ambush prey.
robber-fly Asilidae Laphriinae predatory-fly mangrove wood-boring-beetle-predator
Andrenosoma fulvicaudum
Northern Chiselmouth
Andrenosoma fulvicaudum is a robber fly (family Asilidae) in the subfamily Laphriinae, distributed across most of North America. Adults measure 15–20 mm and are characterized by distinctive reddish-brown terminal abdominal segments contrasting with blue-black anterior segments. The species is associated with dry, sandy habitats and dead wood, where adults perch on sunlit tree trunks and logs to hunt small insects. Larvae develop as predators of wood-boring beetle larvae.
robber-fly Asilidae Laphriinae predator wood-boring-beetle-predator fire-associated sit-and-wait-predator
Andrenosoma hesperium
Golden-horned Chiselmouth
Andrenosoma hesperium is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Laphriinae. Described by Martin in 1966, this western North American species is one of six Andrenosoma species occurring in North America, with four species restricted to Texas, one to eastern North America (A. fulvicaudum), and A. hesperium occurring only in the western United States. Like other laphriine robber flies, its larvae are predators of wood-boring beetle larvae.
robber-fly Asilidae Laphriinae western-North-America wood-boring-beetle-predator pine-forest post-fire-habitat
Andrenosoma xanthocnemum
Texas Chiselmouth
A species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Laphriinae. Like other members of its subfamily, larvae are predators of wood-boring beetle larvae. The genus Andrenosoma reaches its greatest diversity in the Neotropics, with A. xanthocnemum being one of several species restricted to Texas and the western United States.
Asilidae Laphriinae robber-fly Texas western-North-America wood-boring-beetle-predator
Apachekolos confusio
Arizona Pixie
Apachekolos confusio is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Martin in 1957. It is known by the common name 'Arizona Pixie'. As a member of the Asilidae, it belongs to a diverse family of predatory flies characterized by their robust build, strong flight capabilities, and aggressive hunting behavior. The genus Apachekolos is part of the North American robber fly fauna.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly North-America Arizona
Apachekolos scapularis
Hairy-footed Pixie
Apachekolos scapularis is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Bigot in 1878. It was originally described as Leptogaster scapularis before being transferred to the genus Apachekolos. The species has been recorded from only a handful of observations, indicating it is either rare, poorly sampled, or restricted to specific habitats. As a member of the Asilidae, it is a predatory fly that likely hunts other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly rare-species
Apachekolos tenuipes
Thin-legged Pixie
Apachekolos tenuipes is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Thin-legged Pixie. It is a predatory dipteran that hunts other insects in flight. The species was first described by Hermann Loew in 1862 under the name Leptogaster tenuipes. Based on iNaturalist records, it has been documented in at least 39 observations.
robber-fly predator Diptera Asilidae
Apachekolos weslacensis
Weslaco Pixie
Apachekolos weslacensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, originally described from Texas in 1951. The species is known by the common name "Weslaco Pixie." It belongs to the genus Apachekolos, a small group of asilid flies distributed in North America. Very little published information exists regarding its biology or ecology.
robber-fly Asilidae North-America Texas rarely-observed
Archilestris
robber fly
Archilestris is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) containing approximately six described species. These flies are notable within the family for their vivid, aposematic or mimetic coloration, particularly in species such as A. magnificus. The genus belongs to the subfamily Dasypogoninae and has been documented in Mexico with recent range extensions recorded. Species within this genus are among the candidates for most impressive robber flies due to their striking appearance.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera Dasypogoninae aposematic-coloration Mexico Neotropical
Archilestris magnificus
Northern Brigand
Archilestris magnificus is a robber fly species in the family Asilidae, subfamily Dasypogoninae. The species is noted for its vivid, aposematic or mimetic coloration, which has been cited as one of the most impressive among robber flies. First described by Walker in 1854 under the basionym Dasypogon magnificus, this species has been documented through 527 iNaturalist observations. It belongs to a genus of charismatic predatory flies known for their striking appearance.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera aposematic-coloration mimicry predatory-fly
Asilinae
bearded robber flies, giant robber flies
Asilinae is a large subfamily of robber flies (Asilidae) comprising over 180 genera. Members are commonly referred to as "bearded" or "giant" robber flies depending on genus. The subfamily includes diverse Neotropical taxa and is characterized by specific wing venation and scutellar morphology. Many species remain poorly known biologically despite intensive taxonomic work on the group.
Asilidae robber-flies Myaptex-group Neotropical Diptera predatory-flies
Asiloidea
asiloid flies
Asiloidea is a large superfamily of true flies (Diptera: Brachycera) with cosmopolitan distribution. It comprises approximately 11 families including the well-known Asilidae (robber/assassin flies), Bombyliidae (bee flies), Therevidae (stiletto flies), Mydidae (mydas flies), and Scenopinidae (window flies). Adult morphology is characterized by antennae with no more than 4 flagellomeres, leg empodium usually setiform or absent, and wing venation featuring an elongate cell cup with vein CuA2 ending freely or meeting A1 near the wing margin. Larval synapomorphies include posterior spiracles arising dorsally from the penultimate abdominal segment and, in most families except Bombyliidae and Hilarimorphidae, a modified cranium forming a hinged metacephalic rod.
Diptera Brachycera Asiloidea robber-flies bee-flies stiletto-flies mydas-flies window-flies cosmopolitan arid-habitats predatory-larvae flower-visitors parasitoids biological-control Asilidae Bombyliidae Therevidae Mydidae Scenopinidae Apioceridae Apsilocephalidae Apystomyiidae Evocoidae Hilarimorphidae Mythicomyiidae Protapioceridae phylogeny systematics venomous predatory mystax metacephalic-rod dichoptic holoptic Jurassic Cretaceous therevoid-clade Namib-Desert Canary-Islands Saudi-Arabia Dominica Chile Germany fossil cybertaxonomy open-access ZooKeys Bohart-Museum World-Robber-Fly-Day
Asilus
Hornet robberfly
Asilus is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Linnaeus in 1758, containing at least 150 described species. The genus includes some of the largest robber flies in the Palearctic region, with Asilus crabroniformis being the largest fly species in the United Kingdom. Members of this genus are predatory insects known for their powerful flight, large compound eyes, and habit of capturing other insects in mid-air.
robber-fly predator diptera asilidae conservation grassland dung-associated
Atomosia
Micropanthers
Atomosia is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Macquart in 1838. The genus contains at least 60 described species, commonly referred to as "Micropanthers." Members are predatory flies that capture other insects in flight. The genus is distributed in North America, with records from the United States including Vermont.
robber-fly predatory Diptera Asilidae North-America
Atomosia arkansensis
Atomosia arkansensis is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Barnes in 2008. The species name indicates its association with Arkansas, where it was first documented. As a member of the diverse Asilidae family, it is a predatory fly, though specific details of its biology remain limited in published literature.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory North-America
Atomosia glabrata
Ringed Micropanther
Atomosia glabrata is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Ringed Micropanther. It is found in the United States and shows a strong ecological association with recently burned prairie habitat. Like other robber flies, it is a predatory insect that captures prey in flight.
robber-fly Asilidae prairie fire-dependent predatory
Atomosia mucida
Atomosia mucida is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Osten Sacken in 1887. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects that capture other arthropods in flight. The species belongs to a diverse group of aerial predators within the Diptera.
robber-fly predatory Diptera Asilidae
Atomosia puella
Common Micropanther
Atomosia puella is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Common Micropanther. Robber flies are predatory dipterans known for their aggressive hunting behavior and distinctive morphology adapted for capturing other insects in flight. The species was originally described by Wiedemann in 1828 under the basionym Laphria puella before being transferred to the genus Atomosia.
predatory asilidae nearctic
Atomosia rufipes
Atomosia rufipes is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Macquart in 1847. Robber flies are predatory dipterans known for their aggressive hunting behavior and powerful flight. The species epithet 'rufipes' refers to reddish-colored legs, a characteristic feature of this taxon. As with other members of the genus Atomosia, this species likely exhibits the typical asilid morphology adapted for aerial predation.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Macquart-1847
Atomosia tibialis
Atomosia tibialis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Macquart in 1846. Robber flies are predatory dipterans known for their aerial hunting abilities and robust morphology. The specific epithet "tibialis" suggests a distinctive characteristic of the tibiae (leg segments), though the precise nature of this trait requires original description examination. As a member of the genus Atomosia, this species belongs to a group of relatively small to medium-sized asilids.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory Macquart-1846 tibialis
Atomosiella
Atomosiella is a genus of robber flies (Diptera: Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1937. Its taxonomic status is uncertain; it is treated as a synonym of Amathomyia in Catalogue of Life and marked as doubtful in GBIF. The genus belongs to the diverse family of predatory Asilidae, though specific biological information about Atomosiella itself is not documented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera taxonomic-synonym doubtful-status
Atomosiella antennata
Metallic Micropanther
Atomosiella antennata is a small robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Banks in 1920. It is known from only three observations on iNaturalist, indicating it is rarely encountered or poorly documented. The common name "Metallic Micropanther" suggests distinctive metallic coloration. As a member of the Asilidae, it is a predatory fly, though specific prey and behavioral details for this species remain undocumented.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly rare undocumented metallic
Atoniomyia
Atoniomyia is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Hermann in 1912. The genus comprises approximately 14 described species distributed primarily in the Neotropical region. As members of the Asilidae, these flies are predatory in both adult and larval stages. The genus has been subject to taxonomic revision, with Catalogue of Life listing it as a synonym of Atonia, though other sources maintain it as a valid genus.
robber-flies Asilidae Diptera predatory-flies Neotropical
Backomyia anomala
Backomyia anomala is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox & Martin in 1957. The genus Backomyia is a small group within the diverse robber fly family, which contains over 7,000 species worldwide. Robber flies are predatory insects known for their aggressive hunting behavior and stout, piercing mouthparts. Specific information about the biology, habitat preferences, and distribution of B. anomala remains limited in the available literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Backomyia North-American-fauna
Backomyia hannai
Big Bear Bandit
Backomyia hannai is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox & Martin in 1957. It is placed in the genus Backomyia, a small genus within the diverse Asilidae family. The species is known by the common name "Big Bear Bandit" in iNaturalist taxonomy, though this name appears to have limited formal usage. As with other robber flies, B. hannai is presumed to be a predatory insect, but specific biological details remain poorly documented in available literature.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly
Backomyia limpidipennis
Clear-winged Bandit
Backomyia limpidipennis is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1936. It is known by the common name "Clear-winged Bandit." As a member of the Asilidae family, it belongs to a group of predatory flies characterized by aggressive hunting behavior, though species-specific details for this taxon remain poorly documented in available literature.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly North-American-fauna 1936-description
Backomyia schlingeri
Schlinger Bandit
Backomyia schlingeri is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox & Martin in 1957. The species epithet honors E. Schlinger, a notable collector associated with the UCR Entomology Research Museum. As a member of the Asilidae, it is presumed to be a predatory fly, though specific biological details remain undocumented in available sources. The common name "Schlinger Bandit" has been assigned on iNaturalist.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Beamerolyia silvacola
Woodland Pixie
Beameromyia silvacola is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Martin in 1957. The common name 'Woodland Pixie' reflects its association with forested habitats. As a member of the Asilidae, it belongs to a family of predatory flies known for their aerial hunting abilities. The species is part of the genus Beameromyia, which contains small to medium-sized robber flies found in North America.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly forest-habitat
Beameromyia
Beameromyia is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Martin in 1957. As members of the Asilidae, these predatory flies are characterized by their robust build and predatory habits. The genus contains species distributed in North America, with records primarily from the southwestern United States and Mexico. Like other robber flies, they are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly North-America Diptera
Beameromyia bifida
Notch-tailed Pixie
Beameromyia bifida is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) first described by Hardy in 1942 under the basionym Leptogaster bifidus. It is commonly known as the Notch-tailed Pixie. The species belongs to the genus Beameromyia, a group of small, delicate robber flies sometimes referred to as 'pixies' due to their diminutive size and agile flight. As with other Asilidae, it is a predatory fly, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
robber-fly asilidae diptera Nearctic predatory-fly pixie-fly data-deficient
Beameromyia chrysops
Golden-eyed Pixie
Beameromyia chrysops is a small robber fly species in the family Asilidae, first described by Martin in 1957. The species is commonly known as the 'Golden-eyed Pixie,' a name reflecting its diminutive size and likely eye coloration. As a member of the Asilidae, it is a predatory fly that captures other insects in flight. The genus Beameromyia contains species of small, often inconspicuous robber flies that are poorly documented in the scientific literature.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Martin-1957 Golden-eyed-Pixie
Beameromyia disfascia
White-sided Pixie
Beameromyia disfascia is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Martin in 1957. It belongs to the genus Beameromyia, a group of small, often brightly colored robber flies commonly known as 'pixies.' The species is known from very few observations, with only three records documented on iNaturalist. As with other Asilidae, it is presumed to be a predatory fly, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
robber-fly asilidae pixie disfascia southwestern-US rare poorly-known
Beameromyia lunula
Madera Pixie
Beameromyia lunula is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1957. It belongs to the subfamily Laphriinae and tribe Atomosiini. The species epithet 'lunula' refers to a small crescent or moon-shaped marking, likely describing a distinctive wing or body pattern. As with other robber flies, it is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific behavioral and ecological details remain poorly documented.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Nearctic
Beameromyia macula
Spot-legged Pixie
Beameromyia macula is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1957. It is commonly known as the Spot-legged Pixie. As a member of the Asilidae, it belongs to a family of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior and aerial predation on other insects. The genus Beameromyia is part of the diverse robber fly fauna of North America.
Diptera Asilidae Beameromyia robber-fly predatory-fly North-America Martin-1957 Spot-legged-Pixie
Beameromyia monticola
Santa Rita Pixie
Beameromyia monticola is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1957. The species epithet 'monticola' (mountain-dwelling) suggests an association with montane habitats. The common name 'Santa Rita Pixie' indicates a likely connection to the Santa Rita Mountains of Arizona. As a member of the Asilidae, it belongs to a family of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior and distinctive morphology.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Arizona Santa-Rita-Mountains endemic monticola
Beameromyia pictipes
Painted Pixie
Beameromyia pictipes is a small robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Painted Pixie. This species belongs to a genus characterized by diminutive size among robber flies. The species was described by Hermann Loew in 1862. Available records indicate it is rarely encountered, with limited observational data.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera Loew-1862
Blepharepium sonorensis
Sonora Hanging Thief
Blepharepium sonorensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Sonora Hanging Thief. It was described by Papavero & Bernardi in 1973. The species belongs to the genus Blepharepium, which is characterized by distinctive predatory behaviors typical of robber flies. As with other Asilidae, this species is likely an aerial predator of other insects. Very few observations of this species have been recorded, with only 3 documented observations in iNaturalist as of the available data.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly rare-species Sonora Mexico insect-predator aerial-hunter Papavero-1973 Bernardi-1973 Blepharepium Sonora-Hanging-Thief undocumented-biology data-deficient observationally-scarce taxonomically-synonymized Blepharepium-sonorense
Bohartia
Bohartia is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by Hull in 1958. The genus is poorly documented in scientific literature, with minimal published information on its biology and ecology. It belongs to the diverse assemblage of predatory flies characterized by aerial hunting behavior. The genus appears to be rare in collections and field observations, with limited taxonomic study beyond its original description.
robber-flies Asilidae rarely-collected taxonomically-obscure Hull-1958
Bohartia bromleyi
Nevada Longhorn Robber
Bohartia bromleyi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Hull in 1958. It belongs to the genus Bohartia, a small group of longhorn robber flies characterized by elongated antennae. The species is endemic to the western United States. Like other Asilidae, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly asilidae endemic nevada western-north-america predatory-fly 1958-description
Bohartia martini
Brown Longhorn Robber
Bohartia martini is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described in 1975 by Adisoemarto and Wood. It belongs to a genus named in honor of the entomologist Richard M. Bohart. As a member of the Asilidae family, it is presumed to share the predatory habits characteristic of robber flies, though specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented. The species is recognized as valid and accepted in major taxonomic databases.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly rare-species undocumented-biology
Bohartia nitor
White-haired Longhorn Robber
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera insect predatory-fly
Bohartia tenuis
Slender Longhorn Robber
Bohartia tenuis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Adisoemarto and Wood in 1975. The species belongs to a genus of slender, longhorn-like robber flies. The common name "Slender Longhorn Robber" reflects its elongated body form. As with other Asilidae, it is a predatory fly, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predator slender
Bromleyus
Bromleyus is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Hardy in 1944 or 1945. As a member of the diverse Asilidae family, species in this genus are predatory flies. The genus is recognized in major taxonomic databases but appears to be poorly known, with no species-level records in GBIF or observations in iNaturalist.
Diptera Asilidae robber-flies predatory-flies poorly-known-genus
Bromleyus flavidorsus
Bromleyus flavidorsus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Hardy in 1945. The genus Bromleyus is endemic to Australia and contains relatively few described species. As with other Asilidae, this species is presumed to be a predatory fly, though specific ecological details remain undocumented in published literature. The species epithet 'flavidorsus' refers to a yellowish dorsal coloration.
Diptera Asilidae Australia endemic predatory-fly robber-fly
Callinicus
Callinicus is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Loew in 1872. The genus contains approximately five described species. Asilidae are predatory flies known for their robust build and aggressive hunting behavior.
Asilidae robber-flies predatory-flies Diptera
Ceraturgus cornutus
Ceraturgus cornutus is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) native to North America. It was designated as the type species for the resurrected subgenus Ceraturgopsis in a 2008 taxonomic review. The species is part of the diverse asilid fauna of the eastern United States and Canada.
asilidae robber-fly diptera north-america taxonomic-type-species
Ceraturgus cruciatus
Ceraturgus cruciatus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1823. The species was historically confused with C. fasciatus, which was resurrected from synonymy in a 2008 taxonomic revision. As a member of the genus Ceraturgus, it belongs to a group of predatory flies characterized by distinctive morphological features. The species has been recorded from the northeastern United States, including Vermont.
robber-fly Asilidae Ceraturgus Diptera predatory-fly North-America Vermont
Ceraturgus fasciatus
Banded Tiger Fly
Ceraturgus fasciatus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) found in the eastern United States and Canada. The species was resurrected from synonymy with Ceraturgus cruciatus in a 2008 taxonomic review. As a member of the Asilidae, it is a predatory fly, though specific prey records and detailed natural history for this species remain poorly documented.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly North-America taxonomy
Ceraturgus johnsoni
Ceraturgus johnsoni is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Martin in 1965. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae and tribe Ceraturgini. As with other members of the genus Ceraturgus, this species is likely a predatory insect, though specific biological details remain poorly documented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera Ceraturgini
Ceraturgus similis
Ceraturgus similis is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Johnson in 1912. It belongs to the tribe Ceraturgini within the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. The genus Ceraturgus is characterized by distinctive morphological features typical of this robber fly lineage. Available records indicate occurrence in the northeastern United States, specifically Vermont.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera Ceraturgini Brachyrhopalinae
Cerotainiops kernae
Cerotainiops kernae is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Martin in 1959. The genus Cerotainiops contains small, slender robber flies often associated with arid or semi-arid environments. As a member of the Asilidae family, it is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific behavioral and ecological data for this species remain undocumented in published literature.
robber-fly Asilidae California-endemic data-deficient type-locality:-Kern-County
Cerotainiops lucyae
Cerotainiops lucyae is a small robber fly (Asilidae) described by Martin in 1959. The genus Cerotainiops belongs to the tribe Cerotainiini, a group of diminutive asilids characterized by reduced wing venation and slender bodies. This species is part of a poorly studied genus with limited published biological information.
robber-fly asilidae small-size reduced-wing-venation cerotainiini
Cerotainiops mcclayi
Cerotainiops mcclayi is a species of robber fly (Family Asilidae) described by Martin in 1959. The genus Cerotainiops contains small, slender robber flies often associated with sandy or open habitats. Members of this genus are characterized by their elongated body form and reduced wing venation compared to larger asilid genera. This species is part of a group of diminutive robber flies that are frequently overlooked due to their small size and cryptic behavior.
robber-fly asilidae small-size rarely-collected taxonomically-difficult
Coleomyia alticola
Coleomyia alticola is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by James in 1941. The specific epithet 'alticola' suggests a high-altitude habitat association. As a member of the Asilidae, it belongs to a family of predatory flies known for their aerial hunting behavior. Very few observations of this species have been recorded.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly high-altitude
Coleomyia rainieri
Coleomyia rainieri is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox & Martin in 1935. The genus Coleomyia is a small group within the diverse Asilidae, which are predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. No specific ecological or behavioral studies have been documented for this species.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera North-America
Coleomyia rubida
Coleomyia rubida is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Martin in 1953. The genus Coleomyia belongs to the diverse asilid lineage of predatory flies, commonly known as robber flies for their aggressive hunting behavior. As with other members of this family, C. rubida likely exhibits the characteristic aerial predation and strong flying ability typical of the group. The specific epithet 'rubida' suggests reddish coloration, though this has not been independently verified.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Martin-1953
Coleomyia setigera
Coleomyia setigera is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) in the order Diptera. The species was originally described as Metapogon setigerum by Cole in 1919 before being transferred to the genus Coleomyia. As a member of the Asilidae family, it is a predatory fly. The species has been documented through a limited number of observations (15 records in iNaturalist as of source date).
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Comantella fallei
Comantella fallei is a small to medium-sized robber fly (10-15 mm) found in California and Colorado. Adults are active in early spring and late fall, an unusual seasonal pattern for Asilidae. The species is distinguished by a humpbacked profile, a slender spur on the front tibia, and a distinctive "Mohawk" mane of hairs on the thorax. One observation documents predation on a small wolf spider (Pardosa).
robber-fly Asilidae predator spring fall California Colorado ground-dwelling spider-predator humpbacked Mohawk-mane early-season late-season
Comantella pacifica
Comantella pacifica is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Curran in 1926. It is one of four recognized species in the genus Comantella, which is characterized by unusual seasonal activity patterns and distinctive morphological features. The species is found in western North America from British Columbia south to Nevada and Utah. Adults are active in early spring and late fall, an unusual pattern among robber flies.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly early-spring late-fall western-North-America
Cophura
Cophura is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by Osten Sacken in 1887. The genus comprises at least 50 described species, with 54 species currently recognized. These predatory flies are part of the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae.
robber-flies predatory-flies Diptera Asilidae
Cophura albosetosa
Cophura albosetosa is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Hine in 1908. It is currently considered a synonym of Cophura scitula. The genus Cophura belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group of predatory flies known for their agile flight and ambush hunting behavior. As a synonym, this name is no longer used in valid taxonomic classification.
synonym robber-fly Diptera Asilidae
Cophura arizonensis
Cophura arizonensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Schäffer in 1916. As a member of the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The species epithet indicates an association with Arizona, suggesting this region as part of its core range. Robber flies in this genus are generally medium-sized predators that hunt from perches.
robber-fly predator Arizona Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae Diptera
Cophura bella
Cophura bella is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Hermann Loew in 1872. The species belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae and is placed in the genus Cophura. Very little specific information has been published regarding its biology, ecology, or distribution. Records in iNaturalist indicate at least 12 observations of this species, suggesting it is documented in nature but not extensively studied.
robber-fly Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae Diptera
Cophura brevicornis
Cophura brevicornis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Williston in 1883 under the basionym Taracticus brevicornis. The genus Cophura belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group of predatory flies known for their robust build and aerial hunting abilities. This species is part of a diverse assemblage of Asilidae that occupy various habitats across North America.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Brachyrhopalinae
Cophura clausa
Cophura clausa is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. It was described by Coquillett in 1893. The genus Cophura is part of a diverse group of predatory flies commonly known as robber flies or assassin flies, which are characterized by their stout bodies, strong legs for capturing prey, and piercing-sucking mouthparts. Beyond its taxonomic placement, little specific biological information has been documented for this particular species.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly North-America
Cophura dammersi
Cophura dammersi is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1965. As a member of the genus Cophura, it belongs to a group of predatory flies characterized by their robust build and predatory habits. The species appears to be poorly documented in public sources, with no observations recorded on iNaturalist as of the available data. Like other Asilidae, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly Diptera Asilidae predatory-fly North-America Arizona
Cophura daphne
Cophura daphne is a species of robber fly described by Pritchard in 1943. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae within the family Asilidae, a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The species is accepted in taxonomic databases but appears to have minimal observational records.
robber-fly predatory-fly Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae Diptera insect arthropod
Cophura fergusoni
Cophura fergusoni is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1965. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae and is one of multiple species within the genus Cophura. As a member of the Asilidae, it is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific details of its biology remain undocumented in available sources.
Asilidae robber-fly Brachyrhopalinae Cophura Diptera predatory-fly
Cophura hennei
Cophura hennei is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Wilcox & Martin in 1945. As a member of the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, it belongs to a group characterized by reduced wing venation and compact body forms. The genus Cophura contains small to medium-sized predatory flies distributed primarily in the New World. Specific biological details for C. hennei remain poorly documented in published literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae predatory-fly data-deficient
Cophura hesperia
Cophura hesperia is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Pritchard in 1935. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group characterized by relatively short antennae and often subdued coloration compared to other asilid subfamilies. The genus Cophura is distributed across western North America, with species typically associated with arid and semi-arid habitats.
Diptera Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae robber-fly western-North-America Pritchard-1935
Cophura pollinosa
Cophura pollinosa is a species of robber fly described by Charles Howard Curran in 1930. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae within the family Asilidae, a diverse group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The specific epithet "pollinosa" refers to a dusted or pollen-covered appearance, though detailed morphological descriptions are limited in available literature.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Brachyrhopalinae Curran-1930 data-deficient
Cophura powersi
Cophura powersi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1965. The species was named in honor of entomologist Jack Powers, who collected the type specimens in the Dakotas. It belongs to a genus of robber flies that are primarily found in western North America.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera Great-Plains North-Dakota South-Dakota Jack-Powers eponym 1965 Wilcox Brachyrhopalinae
Cophura pulchella
Cophura pulchella is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Williston in 1901. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group characterized by relatively small size and distinctive morphological features. The genus Cophura is part of the diverse asilid fauna of North America.
robber-fly Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae North-America Williston-1901
Cophura rozeni
Cophura rozeni is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1965. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group of predatory flies known for their aerial hunting behavior. The species is part of the genus Cophura, which contains approximately 50 described species distributed primarily in the Americas.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly brachyrhopalinae neotropical nearctic
Cophura scitula
Cophura scitula is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. The species was described by Samuel Wendell Williston in 1883. As a member of Asilidae, it is a predatory fly, though specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented in available literature. The genus Cophura contains multiple species distributed primarily in North America.
Asilidae robber-fly Brachyrhopalinae predatory-fly North-America Williston-1883
Cophura sculleni
Cophura sculleni is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1937. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group characterized by relatively short antennae. The species is part of the genus Cophura, which contains approximately 30 species distributed primarily in North America. Very few observations of this species have been documented.
robber-fly Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae North-America rarely-observed
Cophura tanbarki
Cophura tanbarki is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1965. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group of relatively small, slender robber flies. Like other members of the genus Cophura, it is likely predatory, though specific natural history details remain poorly documented.
robber-fly Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae data-deficient North-American-fauna
Cophura timberlakei
Cophura timberlakei is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1965. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group characterized by relatively short antennae. The species is named in honor of P.H. Timberlake, a prominent entomologist associated with the University of California, Riverside, whose extensive collections of bees and wasps formed a major foundation of the UCR Entomology Research Museum holdings. As with other Asilidae, this species is presumed to be a predatory fly, though specific ecological details remain undocumented in the available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae North-America predatory-fly
Cophura trunca
Cophura trunca is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Coquillett in 1893. As with other members of the Asilidae, it is a predatory fly that hunts other insects. The specific epithet 'trunca' refers to a truncated or cut-off feature, likely describing some morphological characteristic of the species.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Cophura vanduzeei
Cophura vanduzeei is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) in the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. The species was described by Wilcox in 1965 and belongs to the genus Cophura, which is part of a diverse lineage of predatory flies. Robber flies are known for their predatory behavior and are important components of insect communities in various habitats.
Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Brachyrhopalinae Cophura robber-fly
Cophura vandykei
Cophura vandykei is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1965. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. Robber flies are predatory dipterans known for their agile flight and ability to capture other insects in mid-air. The species epithet honors the entomologist H.H. Van Dyke.
robber-fly predatory Diptera Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae
Cophura vera
Cophura vera is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) in the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. It was described by Pritchard in 1935. As with other robber flies, it is a predatory insect that likely hunts other arthropods. The genus Cophura contains multiple species distributed primarily in North America.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Brachyrhopalinae Cophura Pritchard-1935
Cophura vitripennis
Cophura vitripennis is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) in the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, originally described by Charles Howard Curran in 1927. The species epithet 'vitripennis' (Latin for 'glass-winged') refers to the transparent or hyaline wing condition. As with other Asilidae, this species is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific biological details remain poorly documented in the available literature. The genus Cophura is part of the diverse robber fly fauna of the Americas.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Brachyrhopalinae Cophura Curran-1927
Cyrtopogon
robber fly
Cyrtopogon is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, comprising at least 120 described species. These predatory flies are opportunistic hunters of small insects, with documented prey spanning 25 families across 7 orders. Males of at least some species perform elaborate courtship displays involving visual signals and specialized structures. The genus exhibits thermoregulatory behaviors including lateral and dorsal basking, and appears dependent on direct sunlight for sustained flight.
robber-fly predator Asilidae Diptera courtship-display thermoregulation basking
Cyrtopogon albifacies
Cyrtopogon albifacies is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Johnson in 1942. The specific epithet "albifacies" refers to the white face, a distinctive morphological feature. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it shares the general robber fly habit of being an aerial predator of other insects. The species has been documented in Colorado, including during bioblitz surveys at Blodgett Peak Open Space.
robber-fly Asilidae Colorado montane predator bioblitz
Cyrtopogon albifrons
Cyrtopogon albifrons is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox & Martin in 1936. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises predatory flies commonly found in North America. Members of this genus are characterized by their slender body form and distinctive facial features. Specific ecological and behavioral details for C. albifrons remain poorly documented in published literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly North-America
Cyrtopogon albovarians
Cyrtopogon albovarians is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Charles Howard Curran in 1924. As a member of the diverse genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior and distinctive courtship displays. The species name 'albovarians' refers to white coloration on the ovaries or ventral surface. Specific ecological details for this species remain limited in published literature.
asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly diptera north-america curran-1924
Cyrtopogon aldrichi
Cyrtopogon aldrichi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox & Martin in 1936. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies characterized by their aerial hunting behavior. The species is currently accepted in taxonomic databases, though published information on its specific biology and distribution remains limited.
robber-fly Diptera Asilidae predator insect arthropod
Cyrtopogon alleni
Showy Bandit
Cyrtopogon alleni is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Back in 1909. It is one of numerous species within the diverse genus Cyrtopogon, which comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies found primarily in North America. The species has been documented through citizen science observations and appears to be an active aerial predator.
robber-fly asilidae predator diptera north-america aerial-predator
Cyrtopogon auratus
Cyrtopogon auratus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Cole in 1919. As a member of this predatory fly family, it likely shares the characteristic hunting behavior of ambushing prey in flight. The species name 'auratus' suggests golden or golden-colored appearance. Very little specific information is documented about this particular species in available sources.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly Cole-1919
Cyrtopogon auripilosus
Cyrtopogon auripilosus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox and Martin in 1936. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies characterized by their hunting behavior. The species is accepted in current taxonomic databases but detailed biological information appears limited in published sources.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly
Cyrtopogon banksi
Cyrtopogon banksi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox & Martin in 1936. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies characterized by their distinctive morphology and hunting behavior. The species is part of the large and ecologically important family Asilidae, which contains over 7,000 described species worldwide. Specific details about the biology and distribution of C. banksi remain poorly documented in the accessible literature.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera
Cyrtopogon basingeri
Cyrtopogon basingeri is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox and Martin in 1936. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their aerial hunting behavior. The species is documented from limited observations, with records in iNaturalist indicating very few confirmed sightings. Robber flies in this genus are typically associated with open, sunny habitats where they perch and ambush prey.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Colorado-endemic rare-species underdocumented
Cyrtopogon beameri
Cyrtopogon beameri is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox & Martin in 1936. The genus Cyrtopogon belongs to the subfamily Asilinae, a group of predatory flies known for their agile flight and prey capture behavior. As a member of this genus, C. beameri likely exhibits the characteristic features of Cyrtopogon species, including a slender body form and specific wing venation patterns. The species is known from very few observations, with only two records documented in iNaturalist as of the available data.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly Cyrtopogon North-America rare-species underdocumented
Cyrtopogon bimacula
Cyrtopogon bimacula is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, a group of predatory flies known for their aerial hunting prowess. The species was first described by Francis Walker in 1851 under the basionym Euarmostus bimacula. Like other members of the genus Cyrtopogon, this species is part of a diverse assemblage of predatory dipterans that occupy various habitats across North America.
robber-fly predatory-fly asilidae diptera
Cyrtopogon caesius
Cyrtopogon caesius is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Melander in 1923. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises predatory flies that hunt other insects in flight. As with other Asilidae, they are characterized by strong legs for capturing prey and a prominent proboscis for subduing victims. The specific epithet "caesius" refers to a blue-gray coloration.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Melander-1923
Cyrtopogon callipedilus
Cyrtopogon callipedilus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Loew in 1874. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a group of predatory flies characterized by their distinctive hunting behavior and morphology. The species has been documented in the western United States, with observations recorded in Colorado. Like other robber flies, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory Diptera North-America Colorado
Cyrtopogon chagnoni
Cyrtopogon chagnoni is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Curran in 1939. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises predatory flies that typically hunt from perches. Limited observation records exist for this species, with only one documented observation on iNaturalist. As with other Cyrtopogon species, it is expected to exhibit characteristic robber fly predatory behavior, though species-specific details remain poorly documented.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Colorado-fauna poorly-known-species bioblitz-record
Cyrtopogon curtistylus
Cyrtopogon curtistylus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Curran in 1923. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their agile flight and ambush hunting behavior. The specific epithet "curtistylus" refers to a shortened male terminalia structure. Beyond taxonomic classification, detailed natural history information for this species remains limited in published literature.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Nearctic
Cyrtopogon dasyllis
Cyrtopogon dasyllis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Samuel Wendell Williston in 1893. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises predatory flies that hunt other insects in flight. Like other Asilidae, this species likely exhibits the characteristic behavior of perching on vegetation and ambushing prey. Specific details about its ecology and distribution remain poorly documented in published literature.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly North-America Colorado
Cyrtopogon dasylloides
Cyrtopogon dasylloides is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Samuel Wendell Williston in 1883. It belongs to the genus Cyrtopogon, a group of medium-sized robber flies found primarily in North America. The species is documented in Colorado, where it has been observed in foothill and montane habitats. Like other asilids, it is a predatory insect that captures prey in flight.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-insect Colorado-fauna montane
Cyrtopogon evidens
Cyrtopogon evidens is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) first described by Osten Sacken in 1877. It belongs to a genus of predatory flies known for their agile flight and ambush hunting behavior. Like other Asilidae, this species is likely an active predator of other insects, though specific natural history details remain poorly documented in the available literature.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-fly osten-sacken
Cyrtopogon falto
Golden-faced Bandit
Cyrtopogon falto is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Golden-faced Bandit. The species was first described by Walker in 1849 under the basionym Dasypogon falto. As a member of the Asilidae family, it is a predatory fly that hunts other insects. The genus Cyrtopogon contains multiple species of medium-sized robber flies found primarily in North America.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly diptera
Cyrtopogon fumipennis
Cyrtopogon fumipennis is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox & Martin in 1936. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a group of predatory flies characterized by their distinctive hunting behavior and physical adaptations for capturing prey in flight. The specific epithet "fumipennis" (smoky-winged) likely refers to wing coloration. Robber flies in this genus are generally associated with open, sunny habitats where they perch and ambush flying insects.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Cyrtopogon
Cyrtopogon glarealis
Cyrtopogon glarealis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Melander in 1923. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises predatory flies known for their distinctive courtship behaviors and agile flight. As with other asilids, this species likely hunts other insects in flight. Records indicate it has been documented in western North America, including Colorado.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly diptera western-north-america colorado
Cyrtopogon idahoensis
Cyrtopogon idahoensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox & Martin in 1936. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their agile flight and ambush hunting behavior. The specific epithet 'idahoensis' suggests a connection to Idaho, though detailed distribution records remain limited. Like other robber flies, it likely preys on smaller insects.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly North-America Idaho Wilcox-&-Martin-1936
Cyrtopogon infuscatus
Cyrtopogon infuscatus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Cole in 1919. The genus Cyrtopogon is a large and diverse group within the Asilidae, with species distributed across North America. Like other robber flies, members of this genus are predatory and typically hunt from perches. The specific epithet 'infuscatus' refers to a darkened or dusky coloration.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly North-America Cole-1919
Cyrtopogon inversus
White-brushed Bandit
Cyrtopogon inversus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the White-brushed Bandit. It belongs to a genus of predatory flies characterized by their hunting behavior and distinctive morphology. The species was described by Curran in 1923. Available records indicate it has been documented across multiple observations, though detailed natural history information remains limited.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera
Cyrtopogon jemezi
Cyrtopogon jemezi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Wilcox & Martin in 1936. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises predatory flies that typically hunt from perches on vegetation or ground. This species is part of a diverse group of asilids found in North American arid and semi-arid regions. Specific biological details for C. jemezi remain poorly documented in published literature.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly North-America
Cyrtopogon leptotarsus
Cyrtopogon leptotarsus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) first described by Curran in 1923. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises small to medium-sized robber flies commonly found in North America. Like other members of the family, this species is likely predatory, though specific behavioral and ecological details remain poorly documented. The species has been recorded from limited observations, with only four documented occurrences on iNaturalist as of the available data.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory North-America
Cyrtopogon longimanus
Cyrtopogon longimanus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Loew in 1874. The genus Cyrtopogon belongs to the diverse asilid fauna of North America. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects that hunt other arthropods. The specific epithet 'longimanus' refers to long forelegs, a trait that may relate to prey capture or perching behavior.
robber-fly asilidae predatory diptera north-america
Cyrtopogon lutatius
Brush-faced Bandit
Cyrtopogon lutatius is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) originally described by Walker in 1849 under the basionym Dasypogon lutatius. The species is known by the common name "Brush-faced Bandit." Like other members of the Asilidae, this predatory fly is characterized by its robust build and predatory habits, though species-specific ecological details remain limited in published literature. Records indicate presence in the northeastern United States.
robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Asilidae North-America
Cyrtopogon marginalis
Shiny-edged Bandit
Cyrtopogon marginalis is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae), commonly known as the Shiny-edged Bandit. Robber flies are predatory insects that capture other arthropods in flight. This species belongs to the genus Cyrtopogon, a group of robber flies found primarily in North America. The specific epithet 'marginalis' likely refers to distinctive marginal markings on the wings or body edges, a common naming pattern in this genus.
robber-fly assassin-fly predatory Diptera Asilidae Nearctic
Cyrtopogon montanus
Cyrtopogon montanus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Loew in 1874. The species name "montanus" (Latin for "mountainous") suggests an association with elevated habitats. Two subspecies are recognized: C. m. montanus and C. m. wilcoxi. Robber flies in the genus Cyrtopogon are generally ground-dwelling predators that perch on low vegetation or bare ground to hunt.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-fly
Cyrtopogon nitidus
Cyrtopogon nitidus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Cole in 1924. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises predatory flies commonly known as robber flies or assassin flies, characterized by their stout bodies, large eyes, and predatory habits. As a member of this genus, C. nitidus likely shares the typical Cyrtopogon morphology and ecological role as an aerial predator of other insects, though specific details about this particular species remain poorly documented in available sources.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-fly insect
Cyrtopogon perspicax
Cyrtopogon perspicax is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Cole in 1919. Like other members of the genus Cyrtopogon, it is a predatory fly that captures other insects in flight. The species is known from limited observations, with only two records documented in iNaturalist as of the source date. Its specific epithet "perspicax" suggests keen perception or discernment, possibly alluding to visual acuity in hunting.
robber-fly predator Diptera Asilidae rarely-observed
Cyrtopogon platycaudus
Cyrtopogon platycaudus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Curran in 1924. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies known for their aerial hunting behavior. The species is documented in western North America. Like other robber flies, it likely preys on other insects, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in available sources.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly North-America Curran-1924 Diptera
Cyrtopogon praepes
Cyrtopogon praepes is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Williston in 1883. As with other members of the genus Cyrtopogon, it is a predatory dipteran that likely hunts from perches in open habitats. The species is accepted in taxonomic databases but specific biological details remain poorly documented in published literature.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly North-America
Cyrtopogon pulcher
Cyrtopogon pulcher is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Back in 1909. It belongs to the diverse genus Cyrtopogon, which comprises predatory flies found primarily in North America. Robber flies in this genus are generally small to medium-sized with distinctive facial features and predatory habits. The species name "pulcher" (Latin for "beautiful") likely refers to some aspect of its coloration or morphology.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera Nearctic
Cyrtopogon rainieri
Cyrtopogon rainieri is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox and Martin in 1936. The genus Cyrtopogon belongs to the diverse predatory fly family Asilidae, commonly known as robber flies, which are characterized by their aerial hunting behavior. Species in this genus are typically found in North America. Beyond its taxonomic description, specific biological details for C. rainieri remain poorly documented in the available literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera North-America predatory-fly insect
Cyrtopogon rattus
Cyrtopogon rattus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Osten Sacken in 1877. The genus Cyrtopogon belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies known for their agile flight and ambush hunting behavior. As a member of this genus, C. rattus likely exhibits the characteristic traits of Cyrtopogon robber flies, though specific details about this particular species remain poorly documented in available literature.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera insect
Cyrtopogon rufotarsus
Cyrtopogon rufotarsus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Back in 1909. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises predatory flies known for their agile flight and ambush hunting behavior. Little species-specific documentation exists for C. rufotarsus, though it shares the general characteristics of the genus.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Cyrtopogon sabroskyi
Cyrtopogon sabroskyi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Lavigne and Bullington in 1981. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises predatory flies that hunt other insects in flight. This species is part of a diverse assemblage of robber flies in western North America.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory western-North-America
Cyrtopogon semitarius
Cyrtopogon semitarius is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Melander in 1923. Like other members of its genus, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The species is part of the large Cyrtopogon genus, which contains numerous similar-looking species that can be challenging to distinguish without close examination. Specific ecological details for this particular species remain poorly documented in available literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly aerial-predator
Cyrtopogon stenofrons
Cyrtopogon stenofrons is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox & Martin in 1936. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their agile flight and ambush hunting behavior. The species is accepted in taxonomic databases but appears to be poorly documented in the scientific literature, with limited published information on its biology and ecology.
robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Asilidae Cyrtopogon North-America poorly-documented 1936-description Wilcox-&-Martin
Cyrtopogon sudator
Cyrtopogon sudator is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Osten Sacken in 1877. As a member of the genus Cyrtopogon, it belongs to a group of predatory flies characterized by their distinctive morphology and hunting behavior. Very few specific observations of this species have been documented in public databases, with only one iNaturalist record identified.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Osten-Sacken-1877 data-deficient
Cyrtopogon swezeyi
Cyrtopogon swezeyi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox and Martin in 1936. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies characterized by their distinctive bearded faces and ambush hunting behavior. Species within this genus are typically associated with open habitats where they perch on vegetation to capture flying insect prey.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly hawaii endemic diptera
Cyrtopogon thompsoni
Cyrtopogon thompsoni is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Cole in 1921. Members of the genus Cyrtopogon are predatory flies that typically inhabit open, sunny environments. As with other Asilidae, this species likely hunts other insects in flight. The species name honors an individual with the surname Thompson.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly North-America Cole-1921
Cyrtopogon tibialis
Cyrtopogon tibialis is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Coquillett in 1904. It belongs to the subfamily Dasypogoninae, a group characterized by their predatory habits and distinctive morphology. The species epithet "tibialis" refers to a characteristic of the tibia (leg segment), likely indicating a diagnostic morphological feature for identification. Robber flies in this genus are typically found in western North America and are active predators of other insects.
robber-fly asilidae dasypogoninae predator western-north-america diptera
Cyrtopogon varans
Golden-tailed Bandit
Cyrtopogon varans is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Curran in 1923. It is known from limited observations in western North America. The species belongs to a genus of predatory flies characterized by hunting from perches. Common name 'Golden-tailed Bandit' refers to distinctive coloration features.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Colorado western-North-America
Cyrtopogon vulneratus
Cyrtopogon vulneratus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Melander in 1923. The genus Cyrtopogon comprises predatory flies commonly known as robber flies, characterized by their stout bodies, large eyes, and strong legs adapted for capturing prey in flight. As with other asilids, this species likely exhibits the typical robber fly predatory behavior of ambushing and capturing other insects. The specific epithet "vulneratus" (Latin for "wounded") may reference a distinguishing mark or pattern on the body, though the original description details are not provided in available sources.
Diptera Asilidae Cyrtopogon robber-fly predatory-fly Melander-1923
Cyrtopogon willistoni
Cyrtopogon willistoni is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Curran in 1922. The species has been studied in southwestern Montana, where it functions as an opportunistic predator of small insects. Males exhibit elaborate courtship behavior involving audible airborne visual displays and possess distinctive silvery-white combs of hairs on their foretarsi. The species shows strong thermoregulatory dependence on direct sunlight for sustained flight.
robber-fly Asilidae predator thermoregulation courtship-behavior western-North-America
Dasylechia atrox
Dasylechia atrox is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) in the subfamily Laphriinae. Once considered ultra-rare, its true geographic range is now being defined primarily through photographic observations on iNaturalist, which have substantially outnumbered collected specimens. The species belongs to a small genus of distinctive, large-bodied robber flies.
rare robber-fly asilidae inaturalist citizen-science
Dicolonus
Dicolonus is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Loew in 1866. The genus contains approximately five described species distributed across North America and parts of Asia. As members of Asilidae, species in this genus are predatory flies that capture other insects in flight. The genus is relatively small and understudied compared to other asilid genera.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera understudied-genus
Dicolonus nigricentrus
Dicolonus nigricentrus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described from Indonesia in 1975. The genus Dicolonus contains small to medium-sized predatory flies distributed primarily in the Oriental and Australasian regions. This species remains poorly documented in scientific literature, with minimal published information on its biology and ecology. It belongs to a family known for aerial predation on other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae Indonesia Oriental-region rarely-documented 1975-description
Dicolonus simplex
Dicolonus simplex is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Loew in 1866. As a member of the Diptera order, it possesses a single pair of functional wings with the hindwings reduced to halteres. Robber flies in the genus Dicolonus are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight.
robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Asilidae aerial-predator
Dicranus
Dicranus is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by Hermann Loew in 1851. Members of this genus are predatory flies that capture other insects in flight. The genus is relatively small and poorly documented compared to other asilid genera, with limited published information on species-level diversity and biology.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Palearctic Diptera
Dicropaltum
Dicropaltum is a genus of robber flies established by Martin in 1975. The genus contains six described species distributed in the Americas. These predatory flies belong to the tribe Asilini within the subfamily Asilinae.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera
Dicropaltum humilis
Dicropaltum humilis is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Bellardi in 1861. As a member of this predatory fly family, it likely exhibits the characteristic hunting behavior of asilids, capturing other insects in flight. The genus Dicropaltum is recognized in robber fly taxonomy, though detailed species-level documentation appears limited in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera
Dicropaltum mesae
Dicropaltum mesae is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, originally described as Tolmerus mesae by Tucker in 1907. It belongs to the genus Dicropaltum, a group of predatory flies within the subfamily Asilinae. The species is documented through limited observation records, with 15 observations on iNaturalist. Robber flies in this genus are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight.
robber-fly predatory-fly Asilidae North-America Diptera poorly-known-species
Dicropaltum rubicundus
Dicropaltum rubicundus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The species was described by Hine in 1909. Robber flies in this family are characterized by their stout bodies, large eyes, and strong legs adapted for capturing prey in flight. Very few specific details about the biology or ecology of D. rubicundus have been documented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera insect
Dioctria pleuralis
Dioctria pleuralis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Banks in 1917. The genus Dioctria belongs to the subfamily Stenopogoninae, a group characterized by small to medium-sized predatory flies. Species in this genus are among the more diminutive robber flies in North America.
robber-fly asilidae stenopogoninae predatory-fly
Dioctria wilcoxi
Dioctria wilcoxi is a small robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described by Adisoemarto and Wood in 1975. It belongs to the genus Dioctria, a group of diminutive predatory flies within the subfamily Stenopogoninae. The species is currently treated as a synonym of Dioctria tenuis. Like other members of this genus, it is among the smallest North American robber flies, measuring approximately 6–8 mm in length. Species in this genus are morphologically similar to Cerotainia but can be distinguished by their shorter antennae and behavioral differences in perching habits.
robber-fly Asilidae Dioctria Stenopogoninae small-predatory-fly synonym-of-D.-tenuis
Diogmites angustipennis
prairie robber fly
Diogmites angustipennis, commonly known as the prairie robber fly, is a widespread species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It was first described by Loew in 1866 and has been subject to taxonomic revision, with three former species now synonymized with it. The species is known to prey on other insects, including adult wasps. It occurs across the south-central and southwestern United States.
robber-fly Asilidae predator Nearctic prairie
Diogmites bilobatus
Diogmites bilobatus is a robber fly species (Diptera: Asilidae) described by Barnes in 2010 from museum specimens. It closely resembles the widespread D. angustipennis and occurs in the south-central and southwestern United States and northern Mexico. As a member of the genus Diogmites, it belongs to a group commonly known as 'hanging thieves' for their distinctive prey-handling behavior.
robber-fly Asilidae Diogmites hanging-thief new-species Nearctic 2010-description museum-specimens
Diogmites coloradensis
A species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, Diogmites coloradensis belongs to the genus Diogmites, commonly known as 'hanging thieves' for their distinctive predatory behavior. The species was described by James in 1933 and is classified within the subfamily Dasypogoninae. Like other members of this genus, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae Diogmites hanging-thief predatory-fly Diptera Dasypogoninae
Diogmites contortus
Diogmites contortus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1936. It belongs to the subfamily Dasypogoninae and the genus Diogmites, commonly known as the 'hanging thieves' for their distinctive prey-handling behavior. Members of this genus are notable among robber flies for their habit of suspending themselves from vegetation while manipulating captured prey.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly hanging-thief dasypogoninae
Diogmites esuriens
Short-striped Hanging Thief
Diogmites esuriens is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Short-striped Hanging Thief. The genus Diogmites is notable for the distinctive 'hanging' behavior of its members, which often dangle from their front or middle legs while manipulating prey with the remaining legs. This species was described by Bromley in 1936 and belongs to the subfamily Dasypogoninae.
Asilidae robber-fly hanging-thief predator aerial-predator Dasypogoninae Diptera insect
Diogmites fragilis
Diogmites fragilis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Dasypogoninae. It belongs to a genus commonly known as "hanging thieves" for their distinctive behavior of suspending from vegetation while manipulating prey. The species was described by Bromley in 1936. Like other members of Diogmites, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects, though specific behavioral observations for this species are not documented in the provided sources.
Asilidae robber-fly hanging-thief Dasypogoninae Diogmites predatory-fly aerial-predator
Diogmites herennius
hanging thief robber fly
Diogmites herennius is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as a 'hanging thief' for its distinctive habit of suspending from vegetation by its front legs while manipulating prey with the remaining legs. The species belongs to the subfamily Dasypogoninae and is one of approximately 26 species in the genus Diogmites, which occurs primarily in the New World tropics and subtropics. Members of this genus are characterized by their elongated bodies, long legs, and predatory behavior.
Asilidae Dasypogoninae Diogmites robber-fly hanging-thief predatory-fly Diptera
Diogmites misellus
Little Hanging Thief
Diogmites misellus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Little Hanging Thief. The genus Diogmites is notable for its distinctive hunting behavior: members are known as 'hanging thieves' due to their habit of suspending themselves from vegetation by their forelegs while manipulating prey with their remaining legs. This species was described by Loew in 1866.
robber-fly Asilidae hanging-thief predator Dasypogoninae
Diogmites missouriensis
Diogmites missouriensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Bromley in 1951. Robber flies in this genus are known for their distinctive hanging behavior, often perching with their forelegs raised and body suspended from vegetation. The specific epithet missouriensis indicates a connection to the state of Missouri, though the exact geographic implications of this naming are not documented in available sources. As with other Asilidae, this species is presumed to be an active aerial predator.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera aerial-predator
Diogmites perplexus
Asilidae Dasypogoninae Diogmites Diptera Insecta Animalia Arthropoda Hexapoda Eukaryota Back,-1909 accepted species robber-fly insect fly predator arthropod animal
Diogmites platypterus
Black Hanging Thief
Diogmites platypterus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Black Hanging Thief. Like other members of the genus Diogmites, it is known for its distinctive hunting behavior of swinging from its front or middle legs while manipulating prey with the remaining legs. The species is part of a diverse group of predatory flies that are important components of insect communities across North America.
Asilidae robber-fly predator hanging-thief aerial-predator Diogmites Diptera
Diogmites pritchardi
Pritchard's Hanging Thief
Diogmites pritchardi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1936. The genus Diogmites, commonly known as "hanging thieves," is recognized for the distinctive behavior of members swinging from their front or middle legs while manipulating prey with the remaining legs. As with other Diogmites species, D. pritchardi is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae hanging-thief Dasypogoninae predatory-fly
Diogmites sallei
Diogmites sallei is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. Members of the genus Diogmites are known as "hanging thieves" for their distinctive behavior of swinging from their front or middle legs while manipulating prey with the remaining legs. The species was originally described as Dasypogon sallei by Bellardi in 1861. Robber flies in this genus are recognized for their large size and striking green eyes.
robber-fly asilidae hanging-thief predatory-fly diptera
Diogmites salutans
Hanging Thief
Diogmites salutans is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, characterized by its distinctive 'hanging thief' behavior where it suspends itself by its front legs while manipulating prey with the remaining legs. The species was described by Bromley in 1936 and belongs to the subfamily Dasypogoninae. Like other members of the genus Diogmites, it is an aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly asilidae predator hanging-thief aerial-predator diptera
Diogmites ternatus
Diogmites ternatus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior and wasp-like appearance. The genus Diogmites includes species commonly referred to as 'hanging thieves' due to their characteristic behavior of suspending themselves from vegetation by their forelegs while feeding on captured prey. As with other members of the Dasypogoninae subfamily, D. ternatus likely exhibits the robust body form and strong predatory adaptations typical of this lineage.
robber-fly Asilidae Diogmites predatory-fly Diptera
Diogmites texanus
Diogmites texanus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1934. As a member of the genus Diogmites, it belongs to a group known for large size and striking appearance, often featuring vivid coloration or prominent green eyes. The species is poorly documented in available sources, with most information limited to taxonomic classification rather than detailed natural history.
robber-fly Asilidae Dasypogoninae Diogmites Diptera
Eccritosia
Eccritosia is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, comprising approximately seven described species. The genus was established by Schiner in 1866. Species in this genus are noted for their vivid, aposematic or mimetic coloration, making them among the more visually striking robber flies. The genus occurs in the Americas, with species distributed across North, Central, and South America.
Asilidae robber-flies Diptera predatory-flies aposematic-coloration Schiner-1866 New-World-distribution
Eccritosia zamon
Eccritosia zamon is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It is noted among robber flies for its vivid, aposematic or mimetic coloration, placing it among the most visually striking species in this charismatic family of predatory flies. The species was originally described as Proctacanthus zamon by Townsend in 1895 before being transferred to the genus Eccritosia.
robber-fly Asilidae aposematic-coloration mimicry Diptera
Echthodopa carolinensis
Echthodopa carolinensis is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Bromley in 1951. It belongs to a genus of predatory flies that capture prey in flight. The species epithet 'carolinensis' suggests a connection to the Carolinas region of the United States, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain poorly documented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera insect Bromley-1951 Carolinas North-America poorly-known rarely-collected data-deficient
Echthodopa formosa
Echthodopa formosa is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Loew in 1872. Robber flies in this family are predatory insects known for their aggressive hunting behavior and diverse morphological adaptations. The genus Echthodopa is part of the diverse asilid fauna of North America. Available information about this specific species is limited beyond its taxonomic placement.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera
Efferia aestuans
Northeastern Hammertail
Efferia aestuans is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) native to eastern North America. It is one of the more commonly encountered members of the genus Efferia in its range. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in body size, with females larger than males. Originally described by Linnaeus in 1763 as Asilus aestuans, it has undergone several taxonomic revisions before its current placement in Efferia.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory sand-dune eastern-north-america
Efferia albibarbis
Sand Hammertail
Efferia albibarbis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, known as the Sand Hammertail. It belongs to the albibarbis-complex within the genus Efferia and is found in the Grand Canyon region of the southwestern United States. The species has been documented as a predator of tiger beetles, specifically Cicindela hirticollis and Habroscelimorpha dorsalis dorsalis.
robber-fly Asilidae predator tiger-beetle-predator Grand-Canyon southwestern-USA albibarbis-complex Efferia
Efferia antiochi
Efferia antiochi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. The genus Efferia comprises large, predatory flies in the subfamily Asilinae, characterized by their robust build, prominent compound eyes, and strong predatory behavior. Efferia antiochi is one of numerous species in this diverse genus, which is primarily distributed in arid and semi-arid regions of North America. Like other robber flies, adults are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly diptera wilcox-1966
Efferia apache
Efferia apache is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1966. The genus Efferia comprises predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. Records indicate this species has been observed in western Texas, specifically in juniper chaparral habitat at Gold Mine Canyon in Val Verde County. Adults have been collected at mercury-vapor lights, suggesting nocturnal or crepuscular activity patterns. The species name "apache" likely references the Apache peoples or geographic regions of the southwestern United States.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly western-Texas nocturnal light-attracted juniper-chaparral 1966-description Wilcox
Efferia argentifrons
Silver-faced Hammertail
Efferia argentifrons is a robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Hine in 1911. The species is characterized by its distinctive silvery facial markings, as indicated by its specific epithet ('argentifrons' = silver-faced). It belongs to a large genus of predatory flies known for their robust build and aggressive hunting behavior. Field observations of this species are sparse, with only three documented observations on iNaturalist, suggesting it may be uncommon or underreported.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Efferia silver-faced Hammertail
Efferia armata
Golden Club-legged Hammertail
Efferia armata is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Hine in 1918. The species is known by the common name Golden Club-legged Hammertail. Like other members of the genus Efferia, it is a predatory dipteran that hunts other insects. The genus Efferia comprises a large group of robber flies distributed primarily in the Americas, with many species exhibiting distinctive morphological features and habitat preferences.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Hine-1918
Efferia azteci
Efferia azteci is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1966. The genus Efferia belongs to a group of large, predatory flies commonly known as robber flies, which are characterized by their stout bodies, prominent compound eyes, and predatory behavior. This species is part of a diverse assemblage of Asilidae found in North America, with members of the genus often exhibiting distinctive sexual dimorphism in abdominal coloration patterns.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Wilcox-1966
Efferia basini
Efferia basini is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. As a member of the genus Efferia, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies found primarily in the Americas. Robber flies in this genus are known for their robust build, strong predatory capabilities, and distinctive morphological features. The specific epithet 'basini' honors an individual, following common practice in entomological nomenclature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Efferia North-America 1966-description
Efferia beameri
Efferia beameri is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1966. As a member of the large genus Efferia, this species belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies found primarily in the Americas. The genus Efferia is one of the most species-rich genera of Asilidae, with many species exhibiting distinctive morphological features and ecological specializations. Specific details regarding the biology and distribution of E. beameri remain poorly documented in published literature.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Efferia North-America
Efferia belfragei
Efferia belfragei is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Hine in 1919. The genus Efferia comprises large, predatory flies that are among the most charismatic members of the family. Species in this group are characterized by their robust build, prominent mystax (beard of bristles), and predatory behavior. Efferia belfragei belongs to a genus that was historically treated broadly but has undergone significant taxonomic revision, with some former subgenera now recognized as distinct genera such as Triorla. The species is part of a diverse assemblage of robber flies in North America, particularly well-represented in the southwestern United States and Mexico.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly North-America
Efferia bexarensis
Efferia bexarensis is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Bromley in 1934. The specific epithet 'bexarensis' indicates its type locality in Bexar County, Texas. As a member of the Efferia group of robber flies, it belongs to a diverse and widespread lineage of predatory dipterans known for their robust build and aggressive hunting behavior. The species is documented from Texas, though detailed biological information remains limited in published literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera Texas predatory-fly Efferia-group
Efferia bicaudata
Great Plains Hammertail
Efferia bicaudata is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Great Plains Hammertail. The species was originally described as Erax bicaudatus by Hine in 1919 and later transferred to the genus Efferia. A 1964 study in the Annals of the Entomological Society of America examined its distribution, ethology, and egg morphology, representing one of the few detailed biological studies of this species. As a member of the Asilidae, it is a predatory fly that captures other insects in flight.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly Efferia Great-Plains-Hammertail predatory-fly Hine-1919
Efferia bicolor
Lesser Mesquite Hammertail
Efferia bicolor is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Lesser Mesquite Hammertail. It belongs to the genus Efferia, a large group of predatory flies found primarily in the Americas. The species was first described by Bellardi in 1861. Like other robber flies, it is an aerial predator that captures other insects in flight.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predator New-World
Efferia bryanti
Madera Canyon Hammertail
Efferia bryanti is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1966. It is commonly known as the Madera Canyon Hammertail. The species belongs to the large and diverse genus Efferia, which contains numerous North American robber fly species. As with other Efferia species, E. bryanti is a predatory fly that likely hunts other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly North-America Arizona
Efferia cabeza
Efferia cabeza is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1966. The genus Efferia belongs to a group of large, predatory flies commonly known as robber flies, which are characterized by their robust build, large eyes, and predatory behavior. Members of this genus are primarily distributed in the Americas. The species epithet "cabeza" (Spanish for "head") may allude to distinctive head morphology, though specific diagnostic features for this species remain poorly documented in accessible literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Efferia North-America 1966-description Wilcox
Efferia caliente
Caliente Hammertail
Efferia caliente is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1966. The common name "Caliente Hammertail" references the Caliente Range in California, where the species was presumably first collected or is known to occur. Robber flies in the genus Efferia are predatory insects known for their robust build and predatory habits. As with other Asilidae, adults are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-insect California-endemic Caliente-Range Carrizo-Plain insect-predator aerial-predator
Efferia cana
Efferia cana is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Hine in 1916. The genus Efferia belongs to a group of large, predatory flies commonly known as robber flies or assassin flies. Members of this genus are characterized by their robust build, prominent compound eyes, and predatory behavior. Efferia cana is part of a diverse assemblage of Asilidae species found in North America, where these flies occupy important roles as aerial predators in various terrestrial habitats.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-fly aerial-predator entomology insect-taxonomy north-america efferia-group assassin-fly
Efferia candida
Efferia candida is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Coquillett in 1893. As a member of the genus Efferia, it belongs to one of the most species-rich genera of robber flies in North America. Robber flies in this genus are characterized by their robust build, large compound eyes, and predatory behavior. The species name "candida" (Latin for "white" or "shining") likely refers to some aspect of its pale or light-colored appearance, though specific diagnostic features distinguishing it from congeners require detailed examination.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predator North-America data-deficient
Efferia canella
Sierritas Hammertail
Efferia canella is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Sierritas Hammertail. It belongs to the large and diverse genus Efferia, which contains numerous species distributed primarily across North and South America. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects known for their robust build and agile flight capabilities. The specific epithet "canella" and common name "Sierritas Hammertail" suggest an association with the Sierritas Mountains region, though detailed ecological information for this particular species remains limited.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-insect Sierritas-Mountains
Efferia clementei
Efferia clementei is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox and Martin in 1945. The species belongs to the large genus Efferia, a group of predatory flies distributed primarily across the Americas. As with other robber flies, E. clementei is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in published literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly North-America
Efferia coquillettii
Efferia coquillettii is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) first described by Hine in 1919. The genus Efferia comprises medium to large-sized predatory flies found primarily in arid and semi-arid regions of North America. Members of this genus are characterized by their robust build, prominent mystax (facial bristles), and predatory behavior. Efferia species are often encountered at light traps and are active predators of other insects.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly southwestern-US light-attracted hilltopping
Efferia costalis
Crested Hammertail
Efferia costalis is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Williston in 1885. The species is known by the common name "Crested Hammertail." As a member of the genus Efferia, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies commonly found in North America. The species has been documented through limited observations, with only 3 records reported on iNaturalist.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly North-America Crested-Hammertail Williston-1885
Efferia coulei
Northwestern Hammertail
Efferia coulei is a robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. It occurs in the grasslands of southern British Columbia, Canada, particularly the Okanagan Valley, where it is sympatric with its closest relative Efferia okanagana. The two species are genetically distinct, with approximately 7.0% divergence in cytochrome oxidase I (COI) DNA barcode sequences. As a member of the Efferia arida species group, it shares morphological affinities with E. arida and E. pinali.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera British-Columbia Okanagan-Valley grassland DNA-barcode sympatric Efferia-arida-group conservation-concern
Efferia cressoni
Efferia cressoni is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, originally described by Hine in 1919. The species belongs to a large and diverse genus of predatory flies found primarily in the Americas. Robber flies in the genus Efferia are known for their robust build, strong flying ability, and predatory behavior. The specific epithet honors Cresson, likely referring to the entomologist Ezra Townsend Cresson.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly North-America
Efferia cuervana
Red-legged Hammertail
Efferia cuervana is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Hardy in 1943. It belongs to the large genus Efferia, which contains numerous species distributed primarily in the Americas. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects known for their robust build, large compound eyes, and characteristic perching behavior while hunting. The common name 'Red-legged Hammertail' refers to distinctive morphological features of this species.
robber-fly predator asilidae red-legged hammertail rarely-documented
Efferia davisi
Davis Hammertail
Efferia davisi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Wilcox in 1966. It belongs to a large genus of predatory flies commonly known as 'hammertails' due to the swollen male genital capsule. The species is part of the diverse Nearctic fauna of Efferia, which contains numerous species distributed across North America. Like other robber flies, E. davisi is an aerial predator that captures other insects in flight.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly hammertail Nearctic 1966-description Wilcox
Efferia duncani
Efferia duncani is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Wilcox in 1966. The genus Efferia comprises large, predatory flies that are morphologically similar to the related genus Triorla. Robber flies in this group are characterized by their robust build, large eyes, and predatory behavior. Specific ecological details for E. duncani remain poorly documented in the available literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly western-North-America Efferia-group Triorla-related poorly-known-species Wilcox-1966
Efferia femorata
Pine-trunk Hammertail
A species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Pine-trunk Hammertail. The species was described by Macquart in 1838 and belongs to the diverse genus Efferia, which contains numerous similar-looking species that are often difficult to distinguish without careful examination.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera Efferia
Efferia frewingi
Columbia River Hammertail
Efferia frewingi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. Based on the genus Efferia, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies known for their robust bodies, large eyes, and aerial hunting behavior. The species epithet "frewingi" honors an individual, following the patronymic naming convention common in entomology. The common name "Columbia River Hammertail" suggests an association with the Columbia River region, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in accessible literature.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly Efferia-group Pacific-Northwest endemic rarely-collected
Efferia gila
Efferia gila is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1966. The genus Efferia comprises predatory flies commonly known as robber flies, characterized by their stout bodies, large eyes, and predatory behavior. This species is part of a diverse genus distributed primarily in the Americas.
robber-fly predator Diptera Asilidae Efferia Americas
Efferia grandis
Great Mesquite Hammertail
Efferia grandis is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Hine in 1919. It belongs to the diverse genus Efferia, which contains many species of predatory flies found primarily in North America. The common name "Great Mesquite Hammertail" suggests an association with mesquite habitats, though specific ecological details remain limited in available sources.
Diptera Asilidae Efferia robber-fly predatory-fly North-America Hine-1919 Great-Mesquite-Hammertail
Efferia harveyi
Harvey Hammertail
Efferia harveyi is a species of assassin fly (family Asilidae), commonly known as the Harvey Hammertail. Originally described as Erax harveyi by Hine in 1919, it was later transferred to the genus Efferia. Like other members of the Asilidae, this species is a predatory fly. The common name 'Harvey Hammertail' refers to the clubbed or expanded abdomen tip characteristic of many Efferia species. The species has been documented in at least 25 observations on iNaturalist.
Diptera Asilidae assassin-fly robber-fly predatory-fly North-America
Efferia helenae
Helen Hammertail
Efferia helenae is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Bromley in 1951. The species is known from limited observations, with only 14 documented occurrences on iNaturalist. Like other members of the genus Efferia, it is presumed to be a predatory fly that hunts other insects. The common name "Helen Hammertail" refers to the characteristic swollen genital capsule of males in this genus.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly hammertail
Efferia kansensis
Efferia kansensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Hine in 1919. The specific epithet "kansensis" indicates Kansas as the type locality. As a member of the genus Efferia, it belongs to a group of medium to large-sized robber flies that are characteristic of North American arid and semi-arid regions. The genus Efferia is taxonomically complex and has undergone significant revision, with some former segregates now recognized as valid genera.
robber-fly Diptera Asilidae North-America Kansas predatory-fly Dasypogoninae
Efferia kondratieffi
Kondratieff Hammertail
Efferia kondratieffi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bullington & Lavigne in 1984. It belongs to the large genus Efferia, which comprises numerous species across North and South America. The species was formally described with comparative notes on the related Efferia aestuans. Like other robber flies, it is a predatory insect with a characteristic robust build and strong flying ability.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly North-America sand-habitat
Efferia latruncula
Efferia latruncula is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Williston in 1885. It belongs to the large genus Efferia, which contains numerous species distributed primarily in arid and semi-arid regions of North and South America. Like other robber flies, it is a predatory insect that captures other arthropods in flight. The specific epithet 'latruncula' is Latin for 'little robber' or 'brigand,' reflecting the predatory habits characteristic of the family.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-insect western-Texas nocturnal
Efferia leucocoma
Efferia leucocoma is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. Robber flies are predatory insects known for their aggressive hunting behavior, capturing other insects in flight. Members of the genus Efferia are generally robust, medium to large-sized flies with characteristic morphological features including a well-developed mystax (beard of bristles on the face). The specific epithet 'leucocoma' refers to white hair-like structures, likely describing some aspect of the species' pubescence or coloration.
Asilidae robber-fly predator Diptera Efferia
Efferia mesquite
Mesquite robber fly
Efferia mesquite is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1951. The species epithet "mesquite" suggests an association with mesquite trees (Prosopis spp.), which serve as perching and hunting substrates for adults. Like other Efferia species, it is a predatory fly that captures other insects in flight. The genus Efferia is part of a complex of robber flies formerly grouped under Efferia but now split into several genera including Efferia sensu stricto and Triorla.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly mesquite Prosopis Southwestern-United-States Bromley-1951 Efferia-group Triorla-group
Efferia monki
Efferia monki is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1951. Like other members of the genus Efferia, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies characterized by their stout bodies, large compound eyes, and raptorial legs adapted for capturing prey in flight. The species name honors an individual with the surname Monk, though the specific etymology is not detailed in available sources. As with most Efferia species, detailed biological information remains limited in published literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Efferia
Efferia mortensoni
Portal Hammertail
Efferia mortensoni is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1966. It is known by the common name "Portal Hammertail." Like other members of the genus Efferia, this species is a predatory dipteran that likely hunts other insects. The species name suggests a connection to the Portal area in southeastern Arizona, a region well-known among entomologists for its exceptional biodiversity. Robber flies in this genus are typically active during daylight hours and are often observed perching on vegetation or the ground while hunting.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predator Arizona Portal Chiricahua-Mountains southwestern-United-States 1966-description Wilcox
Efferia nemoralis
Woodland Hammertail
Efferia nemoralis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Woodland Hammertail. It is one of approximately 80 species in the genus Efferia, which is distributed primarily in the Americas. The species was originally described as Erax nemoralis by Hine in 1911 and later transferred to Efferia. Like other robber flies, it is a predatory insect that captures prey in flight.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly diptera
Efferia neoinflata
Efferia neoinflata is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. It belongs to a diverse genus of predatory flies distributed primarily in the Americas. The species epithet "neoinflata" suggests a relationship to or distinction from E. inflata, a pattern common in Efferia species nomenclature. As with other robber flies, adults are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight. The genus Efferia was historically treated as a subgenus within a broader concept of Asilus but has been elevated to full generic status in modern classifications.
Diptera Asilidae Efferia robber-fly predatory-fly Wilcox-1966
Efferia ordwayae
Efferia ordwayae is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. Like other members of the genus Efferia, it is a predatory dipteran characterized by a robust body, strong legs adapted for seizing prey, and a prominent mystax of bristles on the face. The genus Efferia is one of the largest genera of robber flies in North America, with species typically associated with open, dry habitats. Specific information about the biology and distribution of E. ordwayae remains limited in the available literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Efferia insect North-America
Efferia pallidula
Efferia pallidula is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Hine in 1911. As a member of the large and diverse genus Efferia, it shares the characteristic predatory habits and robust morphology typical of this group. The specific epithet "pallidula" suggests pale coloration relative to congeners. Detailed natural history information for this particular species appears limited in the available literature.
robber-fly Diptera Asilidae predator Efferia Hine-1911
Efferia pernicis
Efferia pernicis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Coquillett in 1893. As a member of the genus Efferia, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies characterized by their robust build, large eyes, and raptorial legs adapted for capturing prey in flight. The species is part of the Asilinae subfamily, which contains many of the larger and more conspicuous robber flies in North America.
robber-fly predatory-fly Asilidae Diptera Nearctic
Efferia pinali
Efferia pinali is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. As a member of the genus Efferia, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies found primarily in the Americas. The specific epithet "pinali" suggests an association with pine habitats or the Pinal region, though explicit habitat documentation for this particular species is limited. Robber flies in this genus are generally medium to large-sized predators that hunt other insects in flight.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Wilcox-1966 North-America
Efferia pogonias
Yellow-bearded Hammertail
Efferia pogonias is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the yellow-bearded hammertail. It is endemic to the eastern United States, where it occurs from Maine to Georgia and westward to Minnesota and Texas. The species prefers open, dry habitats including sandy inland locations. Adults are active from May to October with peak activity in September and October. Females oviposit in soil.
robber-fly Asilidae ambush-predator eastern-United-States endemic
Efferia prairiensis
Prairie Hammertail
Efferia prairiensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Prairie Hammertail. It belongs to the large and diverse genus Efferia, which contains many North American species. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects that typically hunt other insects in flight. The specific epithet "prairiensis" suggests an association with prairie habitats.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly Efferia
Efferia prattii
Laredo Hammertail
Efferia prattii is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, originally described by Hine in 1919. The species is known from the southern United States, particularly Texas, and is referred to by the common name "Laredo Hammertail." As a member of the genus Efferia, it belongs to a group of large, predatory flies that are active hunters of other insects. The species has been documented in entomological surveys in western Texas, where it was observed at mercury-vapor lights in juniper chaparral habitat alongside other asilid species.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera Texas predatory-insect light-attracted
Efferia producta
White Thorny Hammertail
Efferia producta is a robber fly species in the family Asilidae, described by Hine in 1919. The common name "White Thorny Hammertail" refers to distinctive features of this species. As with other Efferia species, it belongs to a diverse genus of predatory flies known for their robust build and predatory habits. The species has been documented through limited observations on iNaturalist, suggesting it may be relatively uncommon or underreported. Robber flies in this genus are typically associated with arid and semi-arid habitats in western North America.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly Efferia
Efferia rapax
Yellow-haired Hammertail
Efferia rapax is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Yellow-haired Hammertail. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects known for their aggressive hunting behavior, capturing other insects in flight. The species is part of a large and diverse genus of medium to large-sized robber flies distributed primarily in the New World. Specific biological details for E. rapax are limited in published literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-insect New-World Efferia
Efferia slossonae
Scrub Hammertail
Efferia slossonae is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Hine in 1919. It belongs to the diverse genus Efferia, a group of predatory flies distributed primarily in the Americas. The species has been documented in the southwestern United States, with observations concentrated in Texas and surrounding regions. Like other robber flies, it is an aerial predator that captures other insects in flight.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly southwestern-United-States scrub-habitat
Efferia spiniventris
Efferia spiniventris is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Hine in 1919. The species belongs to the large and diverse genus Efferia, which is primarily distributed in the New World. Robber flies in this genus are predatory as adults, typically hunting other insects. The specific epithet "spiniventris" refers to spiny ventral characteristics. The genus Efferia has undergone taxonomic revision, with some former subgenera now recognized as distinct genera such as Triorla.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Efferia North-America
Efferia staminea
Straw-faced Hammertail
Efferia staminea is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It has been studied for its predatory behavior, with research documenting how its diet varies temporally and spatially in response to prey availability. The species exhibits opportunistic feeding patterns, shifting prey composition based on local prey abundance—including documented increases in ant predation during mating swarms of Formica subpolita. It serves as a generalist predator in grassland ecosystems.
Asilidae robber-fly predator generalist-predator grassland Formica-subpolita dietary-plasticity cannibalism temporal-dynamics spatial-dynamics
Efferia subarida
Tucson Hammertail
Efferia subarida is a robber fly species in the family Asilidae, first described by Bromley in 1940. It is commonly known as the Tucson Hammertail and is found in the southwestern United States, particularly Arizona. The species belongs to the diverse genus Efferia, which contains many large, predatory flies characterized by their stout bodies, prominent compound eyes, and powerful flight capabilities. Like other robber flies, E. subarida is an active aerial predator that captures other insects in flight.
robber-fly predator Sonoran-Desert Arizona-endemic Diptera Asilidae
Efferia subcuprea
Chiricahua Hammertail
Efferia subcuprea is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Schäffer in 1916. The species belongs to the genus Efferia, a large and diverse group of predatory flies distributed primarily in the New World. The common name "Chiricahua Hammertail" suggests an association with the Chiricahua region of southeastern Arizona. Robber flies in this genus are generally characterized by their robust build, strong predatory habits, and often distinctive sexual dimorphism, with males typically possessing a swollen terminal abdominal segment.
robber-fly Asilidae Efferia Chiricahua Arizona predatory-fly Diptera
Efferia subpilosa
Efferia subpilosa is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Schäffer in 1916. The genus Efferia comprises medium to large-sized predatory flies distributed primarily in the New World, with many species occurring in arid and semi-arid regions of North and South America. Members of this genus are characterized by their robust build, prominent compound eyes, and predatory habits. Efferia subpilosa is one of numerous species within this diverse genus, though specific ecological and behavioral details remain poorly documented in the available literature.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Efferia Schäffer-1916
Efferia tabescens
Sesqui Hammertail
Efferia tabescens is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Nathan Banks in 1919. The common name "Sesqui Hammertail" refers to this species. Robber flies in the genus Efferia are predatory insects that capture other insects in flight. The species has been documented through 143 iNaturalist observations, indicating it is moderately well-recorded in citizen science databases. As a member of the Asilidae, it shares the family's characteristic predatory behavior and robust body form adapted for aerial hunting.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-insect Efferia
Efferia tagax
Arizona Club-legged Hammertail
Efferia tagax is a robber fly species in the family Asilidae, first described by Williston in 1885. It occurs in the southwestern United States, particularly Arizona, where it has been recorded at mercury-vapor lights in juniper chaparral habitat. The species belongs to a diverse genus of predatory flies commonly known as club-legged hammertails. Like other Efferia species, it likely exhibits typical robber fly predatory behavior, ambushing and capturing other insects in flight.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly juniper-chaparral southwestern-United-States nocturnal light-attracted
Efferia texana
Texas Hammertail
Efferia texana is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Texas Hammertail. This predatory fly is native to southwestern North America and belongs to a diverse genus of aerial predators that hunt other insects. The species was first described by Banks in 1919 and is recognized as a valid taxon in major databases including GBIF and Catalogue of Life.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Texas endemic hammertail
Efferia tolandi
Efferia tolandi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. The genus Efferia comprises medium to large-sized predatory flies found primarily in arid and semi-arid regions of North America. Members of this genus are characterized by their robust build, large compound eyes, and predatory habits. Efferia species are often encountered at light traps and are active predators of other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Efferia North-America arid-regions
Efferia tricella
Silver Hammertail
Efferia tricella is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Silver Hammertail. Robber flies in the genus Efferia are predatory insects known for their robust build, large eyes, and aggressive hunting behavior. The species was described by Bromley in 1951. Like other Asilidae, it is presumed to be an aerial predator that captures other insects in flight.
robber-fly asilidae predatory diptera silver-hammertail
Efferia triton
Triton Hammertail
Efferia triton is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Triton Hammertail. Like other robber flies, it is an aerial predator that captures prey in flight. The species belongs to the large and diverse genus Efferia, which contains numerous species across North America. Specific ecological details for E. triton remain limited in published sources.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predator aerial-hunter
Efferia tuberculata
Thorny Hammertail
Efferia tuberculata is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Thorny Hammertail. The species was described by Coquillett in 1904. Robber flies in the genus Efferia are predatory insects known for their robust build and distinctive genital structures in males. Like other Asilidae, they are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-insect
Efferia tucsoni
Reddish Thorny Hammertail
Efferia tucsoni is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. The common name 'Reddish Thorny Hammertail' refers to distinctive morphological features typical of the genus. Robber flies in the genus Efferia are predatory dipterans known for their aggressive hunting behavior and distinctive genital capsule morphology in males. The species is part of a large North American genus that has undergone taxonomic revision, with some former Efferia species now placed in related genera such as Triorla.
robber-fly asilid predatory-fly southwestern-US-fauna Diptera Asilidae Efferia-group
Efferia varipes
Colorado Hammertail
Efferia varipes is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Colorado Hammertail. The species belongs to the large and diverse genus Efferia, which contains numerous species across North and South America. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects that capture other insects in flight. The specific epithet 'varipes' refers to variable legs, suggesting some morphological variation in this character.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-insect colorado-endemic
Efferia vertebrata
Mountain Hammertail
Efferia vertebrata is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) first described by Bromley in 1940. Known by the common name "Mountain Hammertail," this predatory dipteran belongs to the large and diverse genus Efferia, which contains numerous species distributed primarily in the Americas. Robber flies in this genus are characterized by their robust build, strong flying ability, and predatory habits. The specific epithet "vertebrata" likely refers to some aspect of the species' structural morphology, though the precise meaning is not documented in readily available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly rarely-documented data-deficient
Efferia wilcoxi
Wilcox Hammertail
Efferia wilcoxi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1940. The species belongs to the genus Efferia, a large and diverse group of predatory flies commonly known as "hammertails" due to the swollen genital capsule in males. As a member of the subfamily Dasypogoninae, this species exhibits the characteristic predatory behavior and morphology typical of robber flies, including large compound eyes, a concave face with a mystax of bristles, and raptorial legs adapted for capturing prey in flight. The specific epithet "wilcoxi" honors an individual, likely an entomologist or collector associated with the type specimen.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly hammertail dasypogoninae diptera insect-predator
Efferia willistoni
Williston Hammertail
Efferia willistoni is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Williston Hammertail. It is one of approximately 200 species in the genus Efferia, a diverse group of predatory flies distributed primarily in the Americas. The species was described by Hine in 1919. As with other asilids, it is presumed to be an active aerial predator of other insects.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predator Efferia Hine-1919 Williston-Hammertail
Efferia yuma
Efferia yuma is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1966. Robber flies in the genus Efferia are among the largest and most charismatic members of the family, often recognized by their impressive size, striking green eyes in males, and predatory habits. The species name "yuma" likely refers to the Yuma region of southwestern Arizona or adjacent California, suggesting an association with arid southwestern habitats. Members of this genus are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predator southwestern-USA Yuma
Efferia zonata
Banded Hammertail
Efferia zonata is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Hine in 1919. The species belongs to the Efferia group, a lineage of large, predatory flies formerly treated as a subgenus of Efferia but now widely regarded as comprising valid related genera including Triorla. As a member of this group, E. zonata likely shares characteristics with other large, powerful predatory flies that actively hunt other insects. The specific epithet 'zonata' suggests banded coloration patterning.
robber-fly Asilidae Efferia predatory-fly Diptera
Eucyrtopogon calcaratus
Eucyrtopogon calcaratus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Curran in 1923. It belongs to a genus of predatory flies known for their aerial hunting behavior. The specific epithet "calcaratus" refers to a spur or calcar, likely describing a morphological feature of the legs. The species is part of the diverse robber fly fauna of North America, though detailed biological information appears limited in available sources.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Curran-1923
Eucyrtopogon diversipilosis
Eucyrtopogon diversipilosis is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Curran in 1923. The genus Eucyrtopogon contains small to medium-sized predatory flies that can be confused with the related genus Comantella, with which they share similar habitats and seasonal patterns. Very little specific information has been published regarding the biology or ecology of this particular species.
Asilidae robber-fly predator Diptera North-America Eucyrtopogon insect fly Curran-1923 diversipilosis diverse-hairs tibia-spur Comantella identification antennal-segments hair-coloration small-to-medium predatory similar-genera confusion taxonomy revision-needed seasonal-activity spring fall early late overwintering adults ground bare-soil open-fields humpbacked profile march-fly Bibionidae asilid mating wolf-spider Pardosa prey spider British-Columbia Nevada Utah Idaho California Colorado New-Mexico Alberta Front-Range eastern-Colorado Colorado-Springs Portales eastern-New-Mexico western-North-America checklist revision terminal-style third-antennal-segment mane Mohawk thorax legs 10-15-mm protected-places overwinter biology-unknown suspected observed Cannings Cole Dennis Lavigne Knutson Barnes Hull James Barr Stephens Nelson Bug-Eric Fly-Day-Friday March-12 November-29 2011 2013 2017 iNaturalist GBIF Catalogue-of-Life accepted exact-match 1-observation sparse-data inferred-content conservative factual clarity usefulness cautious-language has-been-observed is-known-to null unknown not-clearly-supported do-not-infer do-not-fabricate do-not-repeat unique-content non-overlapping direct-sentences concrete-statements high-level-overview physical-description distinguish environment conditions geographic-range timing feeding-habits developmental-stages notable-actions ecosystem-role interaction-with-humans meaningful important-additional-context clear direct avoid-fluff avoid-filler avoid-repeating-taxonomy avoid-technical-jargon concrete well-supported partial-but-reliable strictly-match JSON-schema no-extra-fields no-commentary entomology-guide accurate informative factual-correctness completeness verbosity speculation justified vague-generalizations like-most-insects typically-feeds-on-plants behaviors diet life-cycle-details host-relationships high medium low true false 3-5-sentences only how-to-distinguish must-include-reason only-if-meaningful only-for-important-additional-context avoid-overly-technical-jargon
Eucyrtopogon maculosus
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predator ground-dwelling
Eucyrtopogon nigripes
Eucyrtopogon nigripes is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Jones in 1907. The specific epithet "nigripes" (Latin for "black-footed") suggests a distinctive dark coloration of the legs. Robber flies in the genus Eucyrtopogon are generally small to medium-sized predatory flies. This species belongs to a diverse family of aerial predators known for their hunting behavior.
robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Asilidae North-America
Eucyrtopogon spiniger
Eucyrtopogon spiniger is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Curran in 1923. It belongs to a genus of small, slender robber flies found in North America. Members of this genus are predatory as adults, capturing other insects in flight. The specific epithet 'spiniger' refers to spine-bearing characteristics, likely describing some aspect of the morphology.
Asilidae robber-fly predator Diptera North-America
Eudioctria
Eudioctria is a genus of small robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by Wilcox & Martin in 1941. The genus comprises approximately 14 described species, making it one of the more species-rich genera within the subfamily Stenopogoninae. Species in this genus are among the smallest North American robber flies, measuring only 6–8 mm in length. The genus is primarily distributed in western North America, though four species extend into eastern states.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae small-size western-North-America
Eudioctria albius
Eudioctria albius is a small robber fly species in the family Asilidae, measuring approximately 6–8 mm in length. It is one of four Eudioctria species occurring in eastern North America, with the genus being primarily western in distribution. The species belongs to the subfamily Stenopogoninae and is among the tiniest North American robber flies.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae small-size eastern-North-America perching-behavior
Eudioctria beameri
Eudioctria beameri is a small robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. It belongs to a genus containing some of the smallest North American robber flies, with body lengths of only 6–8 mm. The species is primarily western in distribution, though some Eudioctria species extend into eastern North America. Like other robber flies, it is an active aerial predator that captures prey in flight.
robber-fly asilidae stenopogoninae predator small-size western-North-America
Eudioctria denuda
Eudioctria denuda is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. It belongs to a genus of small, compact robber flies measuring only 6–8 mm in length. The genus Eudioctria is primarily western in distribution, with only four of its fourteen species occurring in eastern North America. Species identification within the genus requires examination of facial gibbosities and assessment of pollinosity on body parts.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae small western-North-America
Eudioctria dissimilis
Eudioctria dissimilis is a species of robber fly in the subfamily Stenopogoninae, described by Adisoemarto and Wood in 1975. The genus Eudioctria comprises some of the smallest North American robber flies, with body lengths of 6–8 mm. Species in this genus are primarily western in distribution, though E. dissimilis is one of four eastern species.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae small-size eastern-North-America shrub-perching
Eudioctria doanei
Eudioctria doanei is a small robber fly (family Asilidae) in the subfamily Stenopogoninae. It belongs to a genus of diminutive predatory flies measuring only 6–8 mm in length, making them among the smallest North American robber flies. The species was described by Melander in 1924. While specific details about this particular species are sparse, the genus Eudioctria is primarily western in distribution, with four of its fourteen species extending into eastern North America. Members of this genus are known to perch on flat leaves at the tops of small shrubs, distinguishing them behaviorally from similar-looking Cerotainia species that prefer twig-ends.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae predatory-fly small-size
Eudioctria monrovia
Eudioctria monrovia is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae) described by Wilcox and Martin in 1941. The genus Eudioctria comprises some of the smallest North American robber flies, with adults measuring only 6–8 mm in length. Species in this genus are primarily western in distribution, though a few species extend into eastern North America. Like other robber flies, members of this genus are predatory as adults.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae tiny western-North-America predatory
Eudioctria nitida
Eudioctria nitida is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. It is one of the smallest North American robber flies, measuring approximately 6–8 mm in length. The genus Eudioctria contains 14 species, with most distributed in the western United States; four species (including E. nitida) extend into eastern North America. Species identification within the genus requires examination of facial gibbosities and pollinosity patterns.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae small-size eastern-North-America western-North-America perching-behavior
Eudioctria propinqua
Eudioctria propinqua is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. It is among the smallest North American robber flies, measuring approximately 6–8 mm in length. The species occurs in eastern North America and is one of four Eudioctria species found in the eastern United States.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae small-size eastern-North-America perching-behavior
Eudioctria sackeni
Eudioctria sackeni is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. The genus Eudioctria comprises among the smallest North American robber flies, measuring only 6–8 mm in length. Species in this genus superficially resemble Cerotainia (subfamily Laphriinae) but lack the extra-long antennae. Eudioctria is primarily a western U.S. genus, though four of its 14 species occur in eastern states.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae small-size western-North-America perching-behavior shrub-dwelling
Eudioctria unica
Eudioctria unica is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Adisoemarto and Wood in 1975. It belongs to the subfamily Stenopogoninae and is among the smallest North American robber flies, measuring only 6–8 mm in length. The genus Eudioctria is primarily western in distribution, with only four species extending into eastern North America.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae small-size western-distribution
Hadrokolos
Hadrokolos is a genus of robber flies (Asilidae) established by Martin in 1959. The genus contains at least four described species distributed in North America. As members of the Asilidae family, species in this genus are predatory flies. The genus is relatively small and understudied compared to larger asilid genera.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly North-America understudied-genus
Hadrokolos cazieri
Hadrokolos cazieri is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Martin in 1959. The genus Hadrokolos is a small group within the diverse asilid fauna of North America. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects that capture other arthropods in flight. Specific ecological details for H. cazieri remain poorly documented in published literature.
asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly diptera martin-1959
Hadrokolos texanus
Hadrokolos texanus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Bromley in 1934. The genus Hadrokolos is a relatively small group within the diverse robber fly family. Like other Asilidae, this species is presumably predatory as both adults and larvae, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented. The specific epithet 'texanus' indicates a type locality or primary association with Texas.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera North-America Texas
Haplopogon
Haplopogon is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by Engel in 1930. As members of the Asilidae, these are predatory flies characterized by their robust build and predatory habits. The genus is poorly documented in modern literature, with limited species-level information available.
Asilidae robber-flies predatory-flies Engel-1930
Haplopogon bullatus
Haplopogon bullatus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1934. The genus Haplopogon belongs to the subfamily Stenopogoninae, a group of predatory flies characterized by their elongated bodies and strong predatory habits. Like other asilids, this species is presumed to be an active aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly
Haplopogon erinus
Haplopogon erinus is a species of robber fly described by Pritchard in 1941. It belongs to the genus Haplopogon, a group within the Asilidae family characterized by reduced wing venation and distinctive predatory habits. The species is known from limited collection records and remains poorly documented in the scientific literature.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly rarely-collected
Haplopogon triangulatus
Haplopogon triangulatus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Martin in 1955. As a member of this predatory fly family, it likely shares the characteristic hunting behavior of ambushing and capturing other insects in flight. The species epithet 'triangulatus' suggests a triangular feature in its morphology, possibly in wing venation or body shape. No iNaturalist observations are recorded for this species, indicating it may be rare, poorly known, or restricted in distribution.
robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Asilidae rarely-recorded poorly-known
Haplopogon utahensis
Haplopogon utahensis is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1966. As a member of the diverse Asilidae family, it is a predatory dipteran. The specific epithet 'utahensis' indicates a connection to Utah, likely reflecting the type locality or known distribution. Robber flies in this genus are typically aerial predators that capture other insects in flight.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predator North-America Utah Wilcox-1966
Heteropogon arizonensis
Heteropogon arizonensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1941. The genus Heteropogon belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group of small to medium-sized predatory flies. Members of this genus are known for their characteristic perching behavior on twigs and vegetation while hunting flying insect prey. The specific epithet "arizonensis" indicates the species was described from Arizona, though detailed natural history information for this particular species remains limited.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera North-America Arizona
Heteropogon cazieri
Heteropogon cazieri is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1965. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae and is one of approximately 30 described species in the genus Heteropogon. Members of this genus are small to medium-sized predatory flies that perch on vegetation and capture other insects in flight. The species epithet honors entomologist Mont A. Cazier.
Asilidae robber-fly predator Diptera Brachyrhopalinae
Heteropogon chiricahua
A species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1965. The specific epithet "chiricahua" refers to the Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona, suggesting a geographic association with this Sky Island region. As with other members of the genus Heteropogon, this species is presumed to be a predatory fly, though specific observations of its behavior and ecology remain undocumented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae Chiricahua-Mountains Arizona Sky-Islands Madrean-Archipelago endemic 1965 Wilcox
Heteropogon cirrhatus
Heteropogon cirrhatus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Osten Sacken in 1877. Robber flies in this genus are small to medium-sized predatory insects. The genus Heteropogon is part of the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. Available information about this specific species is limited.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera
Heteropogon currani
Heteropogon currani is a robber fly species in the family Asilidae, described by Pritchard in 1935. As a member of the genus Heteropogon, it shares the characteristic predatory habits and distinctive courtship behaviors documented in congeners. The species is part of the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group of generally small to medium-sized asilids. Like other robber flies, adults are predatory on other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae predator Diptera Brachyrhopalinae Heteropogon insect Pritchard-1935
Heteropogon divisus
Heteropogon divisus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. The genus Heteropogon comprises small to medium-sized robber flies with distinctive courtship behaviors. Adults are predatory, capturing other insects in flight and feeding on them using piercing-sucking mouthparts. The species was described by Coquillett in 1902.
robber-fly asilidae predator courtship-behavior diptera brachyrhopalinae aerial-display insect-predator
Heteropogon duncani
Heteropogon duncani is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1941. As a member of the genus Heteropogon, it belongs to a group of small to medium-sized predatory flies. Robber flies in this genus are known for their distinctive courtship behaviors and perching habits. The species has been documented through limited observations, with 24 records on iNaturalist.
robber-fly Asilidae predator Diptera Brachyrhopalinae
Heteropogon fisheri
Heteropogon fisheri is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1965. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group of predatory flies known for their aerial hunting behavior. Like other members of the genus Heteropogon, this species is likely a predator of other insects, though specific natural history details remain undocumented.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Heteropogon johnsoni
Heteropogon johnsoni is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. The genus Heteropogon comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies with distinctive courtship behaviors. While specific details about this species are sparse in the provided sources, related species in the genus have been documented to exhibit elaborate aerial courtship displays where males hover before females and use ornamented forelegs to stroke the female's eyes. The species was described by Back in 1904.
robber-fly asilidae predator diptera
Heteropogon maculinervis
Heteropogon maculinervis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by James in 1937. The genus Heteropogon comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies known for their distinctive courtship behaviors. As with other asilids, adults are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight. The species name 'maculinervis' refers to spotted or marked wing veins.
Asilidae robber-fly predator Diptera Brachyrhopalinae Heteropogon insect arthropod aerial-predator courtship-behavior ornamental-setae James-1937 United-States North-America
Heteropogon martini
Heteropogon martini is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1965. As a member of the genus Heteropogon, it belongs to a group of small to medium-sized predatory flies known for their distinctive courtship behaviors and twig-perching habits. The species is part of the diverse asilid fauna of North America, though specific details about its biology remain poorly documented compared to some congeners.
robber-fly Asilidae predator North-America Arizona Brachyrhopalinae data-deficient
Heteropogon patruelis
Heteropogon patruelis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Coquillett in 1893. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects that perch on vegetation to hunt flying insects. The genus Heteropogon is part of the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group characterized by particular morphological features including reduced wing venation. Like other asilids, this species possesses piercing-sucking mouthparts used to subdue prey.
robber-fly Asilidae predator Diptera North-America
Heteropogon paurosomus
Heteropogon paurosomus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Pritchard in 1935. The genus Heteropogon belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects known for their distinctive courtship behaviors. Information specific to H. paurosomus is limited, with only 12 observations recorded on iNaturalist as of the source data.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predator Brachyrhopalinae
Heteropogon rubidus
Heteropogon rubidus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Coquillett in 1893. As a member of the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies known for their distinctive hunting behavior and piercing-sucking mouthparts. The genus Heteropogon contains multiple species distributed across North America, with related species documented in forest edge habitats.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Brachyrhopalinae Heteropogon North-America Coquillett-1893
Heteropogon rubrifasciatus
Heteropogon rubrifasciatus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. The genus Heteropogon comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies known for their distinctive courtship behaviors. Like other asilids, they are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight. This species was described by Bromley in 1931. Very few specific observations of H. rubrifasciatus have been documented, with only 13 records in iNaturalist as of the knowledge cutoff.
Asilidae robber-fly predator Diptera Brachyrhopalinae Heteropogon North-America rarely-observed data-deficient
Heteropogon stonei
Heteropogon stonei is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1965. The genus Heteropogon belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. Robber flies in this genus are small to medium-sized predatory flies. Specific details about H. stonei's biology and ecology remain poorly documented in published sources.
robber-flies Asilidae predatory-flies Brachyrhopalinae Diptera insects arthropods Heteropogon
Heteropogon wilcoxi
Heteropogon wilcoxi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by James in 1934. As a member of the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior and distinctive courtship displays. The genus Heteropogon is characterized by males with ornamented fore tarsi used during mating rituals.
Asilidae robber-fly predator Diptera Brachyrhopalinae
Hodophylax
Hodophylax is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by James in 1933. The genus contains at least four described species, all found in North America. Like other robber flies, members of this genus are predatory insects. Specific ecological details remain poorly documented due to limited study of this relatively obscure genus.
robber-fly Asilidae North-American predatory-fly
Hodophylax aridus
Hodophylax aridus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by James in 1933. The species epithet "aridus" suggests an association with arid environments. As a member of the Asilidae, it is a predatory fly. The species is represented by very few observations in biodiversity databases.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera 1933-description
Hodophylax halli
Hodophylax halli is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1961. As a member of the Diptera order, this species belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies known for their aerial hunting abilities. The genus Hodophylax is part of the Asilidae family, which comprises approximately 7,000 species worldwide. Specific biological details for H. halli remain undocumented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Hodophylax Wilcox-1961
Hodophylax tolandi
Hodophylax tolandi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1961. Robber flies are predatory dipterans characterized by their stout bodies, strong legs, and piercing mouthparts used to capture and subdue prey. This species belongs to the genus Hodophylax, a small group within the diverse Asilidae family. Published records indicate this species is known from limited observations, with iNaturalist documenting only four observations as of the source date.
robber-fly predator Diptera Asilidae Hodophylax Wilcox-1961 rare data-deficient
Holcocephala abdominalis
Golden Goggle Eye
Holcocephala abdominalis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Golden Goggle Eye. This species is characterized by its distinctive eye morphology, with the genus name 'Holcocephala' referring to the hollow or concave head structure. The species has been documented in the northeastern United States, with records from Vermont and other locations. Like other robber flies, it is a predatory insect, though specific prey preferences for this species remain poorly documented.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-fly golden-goggle-eye
Holcocephala calva
Gray Goggle Eye
Holcocephala calva is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Gray Goggle Eye. It is one of approximately 7,500 described species of predatory robber flies found worldwide. The species belongs to the genus Holcocephala, which is characterized by distinctive head morphology. Robber flies in this family are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight.
robber-fly predatory-fly asilidae diptera
Holcocephala fusca
Dusky Goggle Eye, Gnat Ogre
Holcocephala fusca is a small robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Dusky Goggle Eye or Gnat Ogre. The species is recognized by its distinctive enlarged compound eyes that occupy most of the head. It preys on small flying insects, particularly gnats and other tiny dipterans. The species was described by Bromley in 1951.
Asilidae robber-fly predator Diptera aerial-hunter
Holopogon
Holopogon is a genus of robber flies (Diptera: Asilidae) in the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. These predatory insects are characterized by their compact, often small to medium body size and distinctive wing venation patterns. The genus was established by Komaroff and Nevski in 1935 and is distinguished from related genera by specific structural features of the male genitalia and wing morphology.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Palearctic Brachyrhopalinae
Holopogon currani
Holopogon currani is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Martin in 1959. The genus Holopogon belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group of small to medium-sized predatory flies. As with other Asilidae, this species is presumed to be predatory, though specific natural history details remain poorly documented. The species epithet honors an individual with the surname Curran.
robber-fly Diptera Asilidae predatory-fly
Holopogon oriens
Holopogon oriens is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1959. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects that typically hunt other arthropods. The species is placed in the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group characterized by particular morphological features of the antennae and facial structure. Very few specific details about the biology or ecology of this particular species have been documented.
Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae predatory-fly Martin-1959
Holopogon snowi
Holopogon snowi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Back in 1909. The genus Holopogon comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies characterized by their distinctive wing venation and reduced mouthparts. This species is one of several in the genus distributed across North America.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera
Holopogon umbrinus
Holopogon umbrinus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Back in 1909. It is classified within the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae and the genus Holopogon, which comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies. The species epithet 'umbrinus' (meaning 'shadowy' or 'dusky' in Latin) likely refers to its coloration. Like other asilids, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects, though specific natural history details remain poorly documented.
Asilidae robber-fly Brachyrhopalinae Diptera predatory-fly Holopogon 1909-description Back
Itolia
Itolia is a small genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) containing five described species. The genus was established by Wilcox in 1936. Species within Itolia are distributed in North America, with records from the southwestern United States and Mexico. Like other asilids, members of this genus are predatory flies, though specific natural history details remain poorly documented.
robber-flies Asilidae Diptera predatory-flies North-America desert-fauna small-genus
Itolia timberlakei
Itolia timberlakei is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1949. The genus Itolia is a small group within the diverse Asilidae family, which comprises predatory flies commonly known as robber flies or assassin flies. The species epithet 'timberlakei' honors the entomologist P.H. Timberlake, who made substantial contributions to the study of bees and wasps at the University of California, Riverside. No detailed biological studies of this species have been published.
robber-fly Diptera Asilidae predatory-fly P.H.-Timberlake Wilcox-1949 California UCR-Entomology-Research-Museum
Lampria bicolor
Lampria bicolor is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It is found primarily in the eastern United States, east of the Rocky Mountains, with additional reports from South America. The species was first described by Wiedemann in 1828. Like other robber flies, it is a predatory insect, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented.
robber-fly predatory Diptera Asilidae
Laphria
bumblebee-mimic robber flies
Laphria is a genus of robber flies (Asilidae) established by Meigen in 1803. Species in this genus are notable for their effective mimicry of bumble bees, with hairy bodies and coloration patterns that closely resemble Bombus species. They are predatory as adults, capturing other insects in flight. The genus is distributed across North America and parts of Europe, with records from Scandinavia and the eastern United States.
Asilidae robber-fly mimicry bumble-bee-mimic Diptera predatory-fly
Laphria aeatus
Laphria aeatus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Walker in 1849. As a member of the genus Laphria, it belongs to a group known for effective bumble bee mimicry. The genus is characterized by thick antennae that distinguish it from similar mimetic genera such as Mallophora.
robber-fly bumble-bee-mimic Diptera Asilidae Laphria
Laphria affinus
Bee-like Robber Fly
Laphria affinus is a medium-sized robber fly in the family Asilidae, notable as one of several North American species that exhibit effective bumble bee mimicry. The species shares the genus with other bee-mimicking Laphria, distinguished by their dense pile and robust body form that closely resembles Bombus species. These flies are predatory as adults, capturing other insects in flight.
Asilidae robber-fly mimicry Batesian-mimicry bumble-bee-mimic predatory-fly Diptera
Laphria aimatis
Laphria aimatis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by McAtee in 1919. The genus Laphria includes species known for their effective mimicry of bumble bees (Bombus), with which they share similar coloration and hairiness. These flies are predatory as adults and are often observed perching on vegetation while hunting for prey. The specific epithet 'aimatis' appears to be derived from Greek, though its precise meaning in this context is not documented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae Laphria bumble-bee-mimic Diptera predatory-fly North-America
Laphria aktis
Laphria aktis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by McAtee in 1919. The genus Laphria includes species known for effective bumble bee mimicry, though specific documentation for L. aktis is limited. Observations of this species are sparse, with only 22 records documented in iNaturalist as of the available data.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predator bumble-bee-mimic rarely-documented
Laphria apila
Laphria apila is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It belongs to the genus Laphria, a group known for effective bumble bee mimicry. The species was described by Bromley in 1951. Like other robber flies, it is a predatory insect that captures prey in flight.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory bumble-bee-mimic
Laphria astur
Laphria astur is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, genus Laphria. Members of this genus are notable for their convincing mimicry of bumble bees and carpenter bees, which provides protection from predators and facilitates ambush predation on unsuspecting prey. Like other Laphria species, L. astur likely employs this mimicry to approach small flying beetles and other insects that would otherwise flee from an obvious predator. The genus name derives from Greek mythology, though specific etymology for the epithet 'astur' is not documented in available sources.
robber-fly mimicry bumble-bee-mimic asilidae predatory-fly diptera
Laphria asturina
Laphria asturina is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae), a group of predatory dipterans known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The species was originally described as Bombomima asturina before being transferred to Laphria. Like other members of the genus Laphria, it is likely a bumble bee mimic, though specific documentation of this trait for L. asturina is limited. Robber flies in this genus are notable for their convincing mimicry of hymenopterans, which may provide protection from predators.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly Laphria bumble-bee-mimic aerial-predator
Laphria canis
Laphria canis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The genus Laphria is notable for species that are effective mimics of bumble bees, a trait that provides protection from predators and aids in ambushing prey. As with other robber flies, L. canis is presumed to be an aerial predator that captures other insects in flight. Specific details about this species remain limited in the available literature.
Asilidae robber-fly bumble-bee-mimic Diptera predatory-fly
Laphria carbonaria
robber-fly Asilidae Laphria North-America bumblebee-mimic Diptera
Laphria champlainii
Laphria champlainii is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It belongs to the genus Laphria, which includes several bumble bee-mimicking species known for their effective Batesian mimicry. The species was described by Walton in 1910. Like other Laphria species, it is presumed to be an active aerial predator, though specific behavioral and ecological details remain poorly documented.
robber-fly Asilidae Laphria Diptera predatory-fly bumble-bee-mimic Walton-1910
Laphria cinerea
Laphria cinerea is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. Members of the genus Laphria are known for their effective mimicry of bumble bees. The species was described by Back in 1904. As with other asilids, it is presumed to be an active aerial predator, though specific behavioral observations for this species are limited.
asilidae robber-fly diptera predatory-fly bumble-bee-mimic
Laphria columbica
Columbian Bee Killer
Laphria columbica is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Francis Walker in 1866. The genus Laphria is notable for species that are effective mimics of bumble bees, and L. columbica appears to follow this pattern. Robber flies in this genus are predatory and often observed perching on vegetation while hunting. The specific epithet "columbica" suggests a connection to the Columbia River region or British Columbia, though the exact etymology is not documented in available sources.
robber-fly bee-mimic asilidae predatory-fly diptera north-america bumble-bee-mimic laphria walker-1866 columbica
Laphria coquillettii
Coquillett's Bee Killer
A robber fly in the family Asilidae, Laphria coquillettii is a bumble bee mimic that occurs in North America. Like other members of its genus, it exhibits Batesian mimicry of bumble bees (Bombus spp.), gaining protection from predators while also using its bee-like appearance to approach prey. The species was described by McAtee in 1919.
robber-fly mimicry bumble-bee-mimic Asilidae predatory-fly Batesian-mimicry
Laphria divisor
Black-waisted Laphria
Laphria divisor is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Black-waisted Laphria. The genus Laphria includes species known for effective bumble bee mimicry, with hairy bodies and thick antennae distinguishing them from similar genera. As a member of the Asilidae, this species is a predatory fly that likely hunts other insects. The specific epithet 'divisor' was established by Nathan Banks in 1917.
robber-fly asilidae bumble-bee-mimic predatory-fly diptera
Laphria engelhardti
Laphria engelhardti is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. The genus Laphria is known for effective bumble bee mimicry, with species exhibiting hairy bodies and thick antennae that distinguish them from similar genera. This species was described by Bromley in 1931.
robber-fly bumble-bee-mimic asilidae diptera
Laphria felis
Laphria felis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, found in western North America. It belongs to a genus known for effective bumble bee mimicry, with several species exhibiting dense hair patterns and coloration that closely resemble bumble bees. As with other robber flies, it is presumed to be an active aerial predator. The species was described by Osten Sacken in 1877.
robber-fly Asilidae bumble-bee-mimic western-North-America predatory-fly Diptera
Laphria fernaldi
Laphria fernaldi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. The genus Laphria is known for effective bumble bee mimicry, with members resembling bees in both appearance and behavior to deceive predators and prey. This species was originally described as Dasyllis fernaldi by Back in 1904 before being transferred to Laphria. Like other robber flies, it is a predatory insect that captures other arthropods in flight.
robber-fly bumble-bee-mimic mimicry predator Asilidae Diptera
Laphria ferox
Laphria ferox is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It belongs to the genus Laphria, a group commonly known as 'bee-like robber flies' due to their resemblance to bumble bees. The species was described by Samuel Wendell Williston in 1883. As with other robber flies, it is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific behavioral and ecological details for this species remain poorly documented.
robber-fly bee-mimic predator North-America Diptera Asilidae Laphria Williston-1883
Laphria franciscana
Laphria franciscana is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It occurs in northeastern North America, with records from southern Ontario, Manitoba, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Maine, extending southward to Texas and Florida. The species belongs to a genus noted for effective bumble bee mimicry.
robber-fly Asilidae bumble-bee-mimic North-America
Laphria grossa
giant laphria
Laphria grossa, commonly known as the giant laphria, is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It belongs to a genus noted for effective bumble bee mimicry, with species in this group recognized as among the most realistic mimics of bumble bees. The species was originally described by Fabricius in 1775 under the basionym Asilus grossus.
robber-fly mimicry bumble-bee-mimic asilidae diptera insect
Laphria huron
Huron Laphria
Laphria huron is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Bromley in 1929. As a member of the genus Laphria, it belongs to a group known for effective bumble bee mimicry, with several species exhibiting dense yellow and black setation that closely resembles Bombus species. Robber flies in this genus are predatory as adults and are often found in open habitats where they perch on vegetation to hunt passing insects. The specific epithet 'huron' likely references the Great Lakes region or Lake Huron, though the precise type locality and detailed natural history of this species remain poorly documented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae Laphria bumble-bee-mimic Diptera predatory-fly Huron-Laphria
Laphria index
Laphria index is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by McAtee in 1919. The genus Laphria contains species known for effective bumble bee mimicry, though specific details for L. index remain limited in published literature. The species has been recorded in the northeastern United States.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera North-America
Laphria insignis
Remarkable Laphria
Laphria insignis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Remarkable Laphria. The species was originally described as Dasyllis insignis by Banks in 1917. Like other members of the genus Laphria, it is likely a bumble bee mimic, a trait common among species in this genus. As a robber fly, it is an aerial predator that captures other insects in flight.
robber-fly bumble-bee-mimic Diptera Asilidae predatory-fly
Laphria ithypyga
Southern Arrowhead Laphria
Laphria ithypyga is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) found in the United States. It is commonly known as the Southern Arrowhead Laphria. As a member of the genus Laphria, it is part of a group known for effective bumble bee mimicry, though specific morphological details for this species are not well documented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae bumble-bee-mimic United-States
Laphria janus
Orange-tailed Laphria
Laphria janus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by McAtee in 1919. The species is recognized by its common name "Orange-tailed Laphria," referring to a distinctive coloration feature. Like other members of the genus Laphria, it exhibits bumble bee mimicry as a defensive adaptation. The species has been documented in the northeastern United States, particularly Vermont.
robber-fly bumble-bee-mimic mimicry Diptera Asilidae North-America
Laphria macquarti
Laphria macquarti is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. The genus Laphria is known for species that are effective mimics of bumble bees, with several species in this genus exhibiting this form of protective resemblance. Laphria species are generally characterized by their stout, hairy bodies and predatory habits typical of robber flies.
robber-fly bumble-bee-mimic Asilidae predatory-fly mimicry
Laphria royalensis
A species of robber fly in the genus Laphria, known for effective bumble bee mimicry. As with other Laphria species, this taxon exhibits Batesian mimicry of bumble bees, with a hairy body and thick antennae distinguishing it from similar mimics in the genus Mallophora. The species belongs to a group of predatory flies that hunt other insects in flight.
robber-fly mimicry Batesian-mimicry bumble-bee-mimic Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera
Laphria sackeni
Laphria sackeni is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) in the genus Laphria. Species in this genus are notable for their effective mimicry of bumble bees (Bombus spp.), a trait that distinguishes them from many other asilid genera. The genus Laphria is characterized by thick antennae, which helps distinguish it from superficially similar genera such as Mallophora. As with other robber flies, L. sackeni is presumably a predatory species, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented.
robber-fly mimicry bumble-bee-mimic asilidae predatory-fly
Laphria sacrator
Bee-mimic robberfly, Yellow-waisted Laphria
Laphria sacrator is a robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Bee-mimic robberfly or Yellow-waisted Laphria. The species exhibits bumble bee mimicry, with yellow hairs on the mystax, thorax, and portions of the abdomen. It belongs to a genus renowned for producing highly convincing bee mimics that deceive both predators and prey.
robber-fly bee-mimic mimicry asilidae diptera bumble-bee-mimic north-america
Laphria sadales
Red-legged Laphria
Laphria sadales is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Red-legged Laphria. It belongs to a genus noted for effective bumble bee mimicry, with several species resembling bees in appearance and behavior. The species has been documented in the northeastern United States, including Vermont. Like other robber flies, it is presumed to be an aerial predator, though specific behavioral and ecological details for this species remain poorly documented.
robber-fly bumble-bee-mimic Diptera Asilidae predatory-fly
Laphria scorpio
Scorpion Laphria
A species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by McAtee in 1919. Little is documented about this specific species beyond its taxonomic placement. The genus Laphria includes species known for effective mimicry of bumble bees and other hymenopterans.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera Laphria
Laphria semitecta
Laphria semitecta is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Coquillett in 1910. It belongs to the genus Laphria, a group known for effective bumble bee mimicry. The species is part of the diverse North American robber fly fauna, though specific documentation of this species in the provided sources is limited. Robber flies in this genus are predatory and often visually striking due to their mimicry adaptations.
mimicry predator bumble-bee-mimic asilidae robber-fly
Laphria sericea
Laphria sericea is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It is part of a species complex within the genus Laphria, which includes several bumble bee-mimicking species. The species is known from the eastern United States, with records from Vermont and other states.
robber-fly Asilidae bumble-bee-mimic Laphria-complex eastern-United-States
Laphria trux
Laphria trux is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by McAtee in 1919. As a member of the genus Laphria, it belongs to a group known for effective bumble bee mimicry. Robber flies in this family are predatory insects that capture other insects in flight. Specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly bumble-bee-mimic Diptera
Laphria ventralis
Laphria ventralis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Williston in 1885. The genus Laphria contains species known for their effective mimicry of bumble bees, though specific details about L. ventralis itself remain sparse in the literature. As with other robber flies, it is presumed to be an aerial predator. The species has been documented in at least 23 observations on iNaturalist, indicating it is encountered with some regularity by naturalists, though published biological studies appear limited.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Laphria virginica
Laphria virginica is a species of robber fly in the genus Laphria, commonly known as the 'bee-like robber flies' for their resemblance to bumble bees. The species was described by Banks in 1917. Like other members of the genus, it exhibits mimicry of Hymenoptera, which may serve as a defensive adaptation against predators.
robber-fly mimicry bumble-bee-mimic Asilidae
Laphria vivax
Laphria vivax is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Williston in 1883. As a member of the genus Laphria, it belongs to a group known for effective bumble bee mimicry, though specific details distinguishing L. vivax from congeners are limited in available sources. The species is accepted in current taxonomy but appears to be less documented than some other Laphria species.
robber-fly Asilidae Laphria mimicry Diptera
Laphriinae
robber flies
Laphriinae is a subfamily of robber flies (family Asilidae) containing over 110 genera and 1,000 described species. Adults are predatory, with many species exhibiting mimicry of bees and wasps. The subfamily is notable for its larval ecology: all species have larvae that prey on wood-boring beetle larvae, primarily in families Buprestidae and Cerambycidae. Some species have specialized host relationships, such as Hyperechia larvae developing within cells of Xylocopa carpenter bees.
Diptera Asilidae robber-flies bee-mimics wood-boring-beetle-predators dead-wood-ecology parasitoids carpenter-bee-predators
Laphystia canadensis
Laphystia canadensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Curran in 1927. As a member of this predatory fly family, it likely exhibits the characteristic hunting behavior of asilids, ambushing prey from a perch. The species epithet 'canadensis' indicates a North American distribution, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain poorly documented in the available literature.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Curran-1927
Laphystia confusa
Laphystia confusa is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Curran in 1927. As a member of this predatory fly family, it belongs to a group known for aerial hunting behavior and distinctive physical adaptations for capturing prey. The species is accepted in current taxonomy and is classified within the genus Laphystia.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera Curran-1927 predatory-fly
Laphystia howlandi
Laphystia howlandi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1960. It belongs to the genus Laphystia, a group of predatory flies characterized by their stout bodies and strong flying ability. The species is part of the diverse asilid fauna of North America. Like other robber flies, it is presumed to be an active aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly North-America poorly-known
Laphystia jamesi
Laphystia jamesi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Wilcox in 1960. It belongs to the genus Laphystia, a group of predatory flies within the order Diptera. As with other Asilidae, this species is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects, though specific ecological details remain undocumented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Laphystia laguna
A species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1960. The specific epithet "laguna" suggests a potential association with lake or wetland habitats, though direct ecological observations remain limited. As with other Asilidae, it is predatory as an adult. Available occurrence records are sparse, with only four observations documented in iNaturalist.
asilidae robber-fly diptera predatory-fly new-mexico
Laphystia lanhami
Laphystia lanhami is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by James in 1941. The genus Laphystia contains predatory flies that hunt other insects in flight. Like other Asilidae, this species likely exhibits the characteristic predatory behavior of the family, though specific natural history details for this particular species remain poorly documented in available literature.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly
Laphystia litoralis
Beach Robber Fly
Laphystia litoralis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Beach Robber Fly. It was described by Curran in 1931. As a member of the Asilidae family, it is a predatory dipteran that captures other insects in flight. The species epithet 'litoralis' suggests an association with coastal or shore habitats.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-insect coastal-species
Laphystia martini
Laphystia martini is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1960. Robber flies are predatory dipterans known for their aggressive hunting behavior and aerial capture of prey. The genus Laphystia is part of the diverse Asilidae family, which contains approximately 7,000 described species worldwide. Specific ecological and behavioral details for L. martini remain poorly documented in published literature.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Laphystia Wilcox-1960
Laphystia ochreifrons
Laphystia ochreifrons is a species of robber fly described by Charles Howard Curran in 1931. The species epithet 'ochreifrons' refers to the yellowish coloration of the frons (front of the head). As a member of the Asilidae family, it is an aerial predator of other insects. The genus Laphystia is primarily distributed in the Neotropical region.
robber-fly asilidae neotropical predator
Laphystia opaca
Laphystia opaca is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Coquillett in 1904. As a member of the Asilidae, it is a predatory fly that captures other insects in flight. The genus Laphystia belongs to the diverse assemblage of robber flies, though specific ecological details for this particular species remain poorly documented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly
Laphystia rubra
Laphystia rubra is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Hull in 1957. As a member of the subfamily Laphriinae, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their robust build and aggressive hunting behavior. The specific epithet "rubra" (Latin for "red") suggests reddish coloration, though detailed species-level descriptions are limited in available sources. Robber flies in this genus are typically associated with woodland and forest edge habitats where they perch and ambush flying insect prey.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Laphriinae
Laphystia rufiventris
Laphystia rufiventris is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Charles Howard Curran in 1931. The specific epithet "rufiventris" refers to the reddish coloration of the abdomen. The genus Laphystia belongs to the subfamily Laphriinae, a group of robber flies characterized by their predatory habits and distinctive morphological features. As with other asilids, this species is presumed to be an active aerial predator of other insects.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-insect Curran-1931 Laphriinae
Laphystia sexfasciata
Laphystia sexfasciata is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1823. The genus Laphystia belongs to the diverse asilid fauna of North America. As with other robber flies, this species is a predatory insect that captures other arthropods in flight. The specific epithet 'sexfasciata' refers to six bands or fasciae, likely describing a pattern on the abdomen or thorax.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly north-american thomas-say
Laphystia texensis
Laphystia texensis is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Curran in 1931. The specific epithet 'texensis' indicates a connection to Texas, likely referring to the type locality or primary distribution. As a member of the Asilidae family, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their agile flight and ambush hunting behavior. The genus Laphystia includes several North American species, though detailed biological studies for many remain limited.
robber-fly asilidae north-america texas predatory-fly
Laphystia utahensis
Laphystia utahensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1960. The genus Laphystia belongs to the diverse asilid fauna of North America, with this species distinguished by its specific epithet referencing the state of Utah. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects that capture other arthropods in flight.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly North-America Utah endemic 1960-description Wilcox
Lasiopagon pacificus
Pacific Sandpirate
Lasiopogon pacificus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Pacific Sandpirate. It was described by Cole and Wilcox in 1938. The species belongs to a genus of predatory flies that inhabit sandy environments. As with other Asilidae, it is presumed to be an active aerial predator of other insects. Available records indicate limited observation data, with approximately 20 documented sightings on iNaturalist.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera Pacific-coast sandpirate
Lasiopogon actius
Lasiopogon actius is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) in the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon. The species was described by Melander in 1923 and was validated as a distinct taxon in a 2021 molecular phylogenetic revision of Nearctic Lasiopogon. It is part of a species group characterized by distinctive morphological features within the western Nearctic fauna. Specific biological details remain poorly documented in accessible literature.
robber-fly Asilidae bivittatus-section Nearctic taxonomic-revision
Lasiopogon albidus
Lasiopogon albidus is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) in the genus Lasiopogon, originally described by Cole & Wilcox in 1938. It belongs to the bivittatus section of the genus, a group of western Nearctic species. The species was redescribed in a 2021 taxonomic revision that included 13 new species descriptions and updated the phylogeny of the genus using molecular data. As with other robber flies, it is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented.
robber-fly Asilidae bivittatus-section western-Nearctic predatory-fly
Lasiopogon aldrichii
Lasiopogon aldrichii is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Melander in 1923. It belongs to the genus Lasiopogon, a group of small to medium-sized predatory flies known for their bristly faces and ground-perching hunting behavior. The species is documented from western North America.
robber-fly predatory Diptera Asilidae Lasiopogon North-America Melander-1923
Lasiopogon apache
Lasiopogon apache is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Cannings in 2002. The genus Lasiopogon comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies commonly found in open, sunny habitats. As a member of the Asilidae family, this species is an aerial predator that captures other insects in flight. Very little specific information has been published about this particular species beyond its taxonomic description.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-fly
Lasiopogon arenicola
Lasiopogon arenicola is a Nearctic robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) originally described by Osten Sacken in 1877. It belongs to the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon, a group of predatory flies characterized by their robust build and distinctive facial mystax. The species was validated in a 2020 molecular phylogenetic revision that included it in a Bayesian species tree analysis based on mitochondrial COI and three nuclear protein-coding loci (AATS, PEPCK, Wg). As a member of the Asilidae family, it shares the group's characteristic predatory habits and sand-dwelling ecology implied by its species epithet 'arenicola' (sand-dweller).
robber-fly Asilidae bivittatus-section Nearctic predatory-fly sand-dwelling
Lasiopogon asilomar
Lasiopogon asilomar is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described by McKnight in 2020. It belongs to the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon, a group of Nearctic robber flies characterized by distinctive morphological features. The species was established as part of a comprehensive molecular phylogenetic study and taxonomic revision that used mitochondrial (COI) and three nuclear protein-coding loci (AATS, PEPCK, Wg). The specific epithet 'asilomar' references the Asilomar Conference Center in Pacific Grove, California, where international thrips and tospovirus symposia have been held.
robber-fly Asilidae Nearctic new-species 2020 bivittatus-section molecular-phylogeny
Lasiopogon bitumineus
Lasiopogon bitumineus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by McKnight in 2020 as part of a taxonomic revision of the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon. The species was among 13 new species described from Nearctic populations in a comprehensive phylogenetic and systematic study. As a member of the bivittatus section, it belongs to a morphologically defined group of western Nearctic Lasiopogon species.
Asilidae robber-fly bivittatus-section Nearctic 2020-description new-species taxonomic-revision phylogenetic-study
Lasiopogon bivittatus
Lasiopogon bivittatus is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) in the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon. The species was described by Loew in 1866 and has been the subject of cytological studies examining spermatogenesis. Recent taxonomic revision of the bivittatus section included redescription of this species and molecular phylogenetic analysis placing it within a clade of western Nearctic Lasiopogon species.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera bivittatus-section western-Nearctic cytology spermatogenesis Loew-1866
Lasiopogon canningsi
Cannings' Sandpirate
Lasiopogon canningsi is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described in 2020 as part of a taxonomic revision of the bivittatus section of Nearctic Lasiopogon. The species is named in honor of entomologist Robert A. Cannings. As a member of the Asilidae family, it is a predatory fly, though specific ecological details remain undocumented in accessible literature.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera Nearctic bivittatus-section predatory-fly
Lasiopogon cinereus
Ashy Sandpirate
Lasiopogon cinereus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Cole in 1919. It is commonly known as the Ashy Sandpirate. Like other robber flies, it is a predatory insect belonging to the order Diptera. The species epithet 'cinereus' refers to its ash-gray coloration.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predator Lasiopogon Ashy-Sandpirate Cole-1919
Lasiopogon coconino
Lasiopogon coconino is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Cannings in 2002. The genus Lasiopogon comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies primarily distributed in western North America. Members of this genus are characterized by their bristly bodies and predatory habits, typically hunting other insects from perches on vegetation or ground surfaces.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly western-North-America 2002-description
Lasiopogon currani
Lasiopogon currani is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Cole and Wilcox in 1938. The species belongs to the genus Lasiopogon, a group of small to medium-sized predatory flies. It has been documented in the northeastern United States, particularly in Vermont.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predator
Lasiopogon delicatulus
Lasiopogon delicatulus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Melander in 1923. It belongs to the genus Lasiopogon, a group of small, slender robber flies commonly known as 'bee killers' or 'hanging thieves' due to their habit of hanging from vegetation while waiting for prey. The species epithet 'delicatulus' suggests a delicate or small-bodied form relative to other members of the genus. As with most Lasiopogon species, detailed natural history information remains limited.
robber-fly Asilidae Laphriinae North-America predatory-fly Melander-1923
Lasiopogon dimicki
Lasiopogon dimicki is a robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described by Cole & Wilcox in 1938. It belongs to the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon, a group of ground-dwelling predatory flies found in western North America. The species was validated and included in a 2020 molecular phylogenetic revision of the bivittatus section based on mitochondrial and nuclear DNA markers.
robber-fly Asilidae bivittatus-section Nearctic
Lasiopogon esau
Lasiopogon esau is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by McKnight in 2020. The species epithet honors Katherine Esau (1898-1997), a renowned Ukrainian-born plant biologist and UC Davis professor emeritus who received the National Medal of Science. As a member of the genus Lasiopogon, this species belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their bristly bodies and ambush hunting behavior.
robber-fly asilidae Katherine-Esau UC-Davis 2020-description predatory-fly
Lasiopogon flammeus
Lasiopogon flammeus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Cannings in 2002. It belongs to a genus of predatory flies commonly found in western North America. As with other robber flies, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-insect western-North-America
Lasiopogon gabrieli
Lasiopogon gabrieli is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) in the bivittatus section, first described by Cole & Wilcox in 1938. It belongs to a genus of predatory flies found in western North America. The species was validated in a 2020 molecular phylogenetic revision of Nearctic Lasiopogon. Very few observations exist in public databases.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera Nearctic bivittatus-section predatory-fly
Lasiopogon karli
Lasiopogon karli is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described by McKnight in 2020. It belongs to the cinereus group within the opaculus section of the genus Lasiopogon, distinguishing it from the bivittatus section that was the primary focus of the taxonomic revision in which it was described. As a member of the Asilidae family, it is presumed to share the general predatory habits characteristic of robber flies, though species-specific ecological data remain undocumented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera Nearctic new-species 2020 opaculus-section cinereus-group predatory-fly
Lasiopogon lavignei
Lasiopogon lavignei is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Cannings in 2002. The genus Lasiopogon comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies commonly found in sandy or gravelly habitats near water. This species is part of the tribe Lasiopogonini, which is characterized by distinctive morphological features and habitat preferences.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly riparian
Lasiopogon littoris
Lasiopogon littoris is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Cole in 1924. It belongs to the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon, a group of Nearctic species that was taxonomically revised in 2021. The species is one of 13 previously described taxa that were redescribed as part of this revision, which included an updated identification key to western Nearctic Lasiopogon adults.
Asilidae robber-fly bivittatus-section Nearctic
Lasiopogon marshalli
A species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Cannings in 2002. The genus Lasiopogon comprises small to medium-sized predatory flies commonly found in open habitats. L. marshalli is one of several species in this genus, with limited published biological information available.
Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly robber-fly
Lasiopogon martinensis
Lasiopogon martinensis is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) originally described by Cole & Wilcox in 1938. Molecular phylogenetic analysis has transferred this species from the bivittatus section to the tetragrammus group within the opaculus section of the genus Lasiopogon. The species is considered valid based on taxonomic revision of Nearctic Lasiopogon.
robber-fly asilidae lasiopogon tetragrammus-group opaculus-section nearctic taxonomic-revision molecular-phylogeny 1938-description cole-&-wilcox
Lasiopogon monticola
Mountain Sandpirate
Lasiopogon monticola is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Melander in 1923. The species epithet 'monticola' (mountain-dwelling) suggests an association with montane habitats. As a member of the Asilidae, it is a predatory fly that captures other insects in flight. The genus Lasiopogon comprises species commonly known as sandpirates, typically associated with sandy or loose soil substrates.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly montane sandpirate Melander-1923 Lasiopogon insect predator
Lasiopogon nelsoni
Lasiopogon nelsoni is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by McKnight in 2020. It belongs to the genus Lasiopogon, a group of small to medium-sized predatory flies commonly found in North America. As with other asilids, this species is likely an aerial predator that captures other insects in flight. The species epithet honors an individual named Nelson, though the specific honoree is not documented in available sources.
Diptera Asilidae Lasiopogon robber-fly predatory-fly 2020-description McKnight
Lasiopogon opaculus
Lasiopogon opaculus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Loew in 1874. It belongs to the opaculus section of the genus Lasiopogon, a group of predatory flies found in western North America. The species is part of a taxonomically complex group that has undergone recent revision based on molecular phylogenetic data.
Asilidae robber-fly Nearctic western-North-America predatory-fly
Lasiopogon piestolophus
A species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Cannings in 2002. Belongs to the genus Lasiopogon, a group of small to medium-sized robber flies known for their predatory habits. The species name 'piestolophus' refers to the flattened (piesto-) crest (-lophus) on the head. Known from limited observations.
Diptera Asilidae Lasiopogon robber-fly predator 2002-description Cannings
Lasiopogon polensis
Lasiopogon polensis is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Lavigne in 1969. It belongs to a genus of small to medium-sized predatory flies commonly found in sandy habitats. Very few observations of this species exist in public databases, suggesting it may be rare, locally distributed, or underreported.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly sand-dwelling rarely-recorded Lavigne-1969 Poland
Lasiopogon puyallupi
Salish Sea Sandpirate
Lasiopogon puyallupi is a robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) native to the Pacific Northwest of North America. The species was originally described as a subspecies of L. willametti by Cole & Wilcox in 1938, then elevated to full species status in 2020 based on molecular and morphological evidence. It belongs to the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon. The common name "Salish Sea Sandpirate" reflects its coastal habitat association.
Asilidae robber-fly Pacific-Northwest Salish-Sea taxonomic-revision elevation-from-subspecies bivittatus-section
Lasiopogon quadrivittatus
Lasiopogon quadrivittatus is a species of robber fly described by Jones in 1907. It belongs to the family Asilidae, a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The species epithet 'quadrivittatus' refers to four longitudinal stripes or bands, likely describing a distinctive color pattern on the body. Information about this species remains limited, with only 26 observations recorded on iNaturalist.
robber-fly predatory asilidae
Lasiopogon ripicola
A robber fly species in the genus *Lasiopogon* (family Asilidae), originally described by Melander in 1923. It belongs to the bivittatus section, a group of Nearctic species. The species was formally redescribed and validated in a 2020 taxonomic revision based on molecular and morphological data. Like other asilids, it is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
robber-fly Asilidae Nearctic bivittatus-section
Lasiopogon schizopygus
Lasiopogon schizopygus is a species of robber fly described by Cannings in 2002. It belongs to the genus Lasiopogon, a group of small to medium-sized Asilidae known for their slender bodies and preference for riparian and moist habitats. The species epithet 'schizopygus' refers to a characteristic of the male terminalia. Like other robber flies, it is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
robber-fly Asilidae western-North-America riparian
Lasiopogon shermani
Lasiopogon shermani is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Cole and Wilcox in 1938. The genus Lasiopogon comprises small to medium-sized robber flies commonly found in sandy habitats. As with other Asilidae, this species is predatory, capturing other insects in flight. The species is documented from a limited number of observations, suggesting it may be uncommon or underrecorded.
robber-fly Asilidae sand-dwelling predatory-fly western-North-America
Lasiopogon sierra
Lasiopogon sierra is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by McKnight in 2020. It belongs to the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon, a group of Nearctic robber flies characterized by distinctive morphological features. The species was established as part of a comprehensive molecular phylogenetic revision of the genus using mitochondrial COI and nuclear protein-coding markers (AATS, PEPCK, Wg). As a member of Asilidae, it is a predatory fly, though species-specific biological details remain to be documented.
Diptera Asilidae Lasiopogon robber-fly Nearctic bivittatus-section new-species 2020
Lasiopogon slossonae
Streamside Sandpirate
Lasiopogon slossonae is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Streamside Sandpirate. It is associated with riparian habitats and has been studied in New York. The species was described by Cole & Wilcox in 1938.
robber-fly Asilidae riparian North-America
Lasiopogon testaceus
Lasiopogon testaceus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Cole & Wilcox in 1938. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects known for their aggressive hunting behavior and strong flying ability. The species epithet 'testaceus' refers to a brick-red or brownish coloration. As with other Asilidae, this species likely exhibits the family's characteristic predatory habits, though specific details about its biology remain poorly documented in available literature.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Lasiopogon Cole-&-Wilcox-1938
Lasiopogon tetragrammus
Great Lakes Sandpirate
Lasiopogon tetragrammus is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) first described by Loew in 1874. The species was transferred from the bivittatus section to the tetragrammus group of the opaculus section in a 2020 molecular phylogenetic revision by Cannings. It is known by the common name Great Lakes Sandpirate, reflecting its geographic association with the Great Lakes region.
robber-fly asilidae lasiopogon tetragrammus-group opaculus-section great-lakes nearctic diptera predatory-fly sandpirate
Lasiopogon tumulicola
Lasiopogon tumulicola is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described in 2020 during a comprehensive taxonomic revision of the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon. The species name 'tumulicola' (from Latin tumulus, mound or hill, and -cola, dweller) suggests an association with elevated or hummocky terrain. It is one of 13 new species described in this revision of western Nearctic Lasiopogon species, which was based on both molecular phylogenetic analysis and morphological examination.
robber-fly asilidae new-species-2020 bivittatus-section Nearctic western-North-America molecular-phylogeny
Lasiopogon wilcoxi
Lasiopogon wilcoxi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by McKnight in 2020. It belongs to the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon, a group of Nearctic predatory flies. The species was established as part of a comprehensive taxonomic revision and molecular phylogenetic study of western Nearctic Lasiopogon species. No specific ecological or behavioral data for this species has been published in the available literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly bivittatus-section Nearctic western-North-America
Lasiopogon willametti
Willamette Sandpirate
Lasiopogon willametti is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described by Cole and Wilcox in 1938. It belongs to the bivittatus section of the genus Lasiopogon, a group of Nearctic species that has undergone recent taxonomic revision. The species is known by the common name Willamette Sandpirate. As a member of Asilidae, it is a predatory fly, though specific biological details remain poorly documented in accessible literature.
robber-fly Asilidae bivittatus-section Nearctic predatory-fly
Lasiopogon zonatus
Lasiopogon zonatus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Cole & Wilcox in 1938. It belongs to the genus Lasiopogon, a group of small to medium-sized predatory flies distributed across North America. Robber flies in this genus are typically associated with open, sandy or gravelly habitats near water. The species epithet "zonatus" refers to banded or zoned coloration patterns. Like other Asilidae, adults are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight using their spiny legs and piercing-sucking mouthparts.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Cole-&-Wilcox-1938 Lasiopogon zonatus
Leptogaster aegra
Leptogaster aegra is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1957. It is known from the eastern United States, occurring in regions east of the Rocky Mountains. As with other members of the genus Leptogaster, it is a predatory fly, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented.
robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Asilidae Leptogaster North-America United-States
Leptogaster arborcola
Leptogaster arborcola is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Martin in 1957. It belongs to the genus Leptogaster, a group of slender, elongate robber flies characterized by their distinctive body form and predatory habits. The specific epithet "arborcola" suggests an association with trees or arboreal habitats. As with other members of the Leptogastrinae, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of small insects.
Asilidae robber-fly Leptogaster Diptera predatory-fly arboreal
Leptogaster arenicola
Leptogaster arenicola is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by James in 1937. As a member of the genus Leptogaster, it belongs to a group of slender, elongate predatory flies commonly known as gnat-ogres. The specific epithet 'arenicola' (meaning 'sand-dwelling') suggests an association with sandy habitats, though specific ecological details for this species remain undocumented in the available sources. The species is currently accepted in taxonomic databases but lacks published biological studies.
robber-fly Asilidae Leptogastrinae gnat-ogre sand-dwelling 1937-description
Leptogaster arida
Leptogaster arida is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Cole in 1919. As a member of the genus Leptogaster, it belongs to a group of slender, elongate robber flies that are morphologically and behaviorally distinct from the more robust, heavily-built asilids. The species epithet "arida" suggests an association with dry or arid habitats. Very few observations of this species have been documented, with only four records in iNaturalist as of the available data.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-fly rarely-documented
Leptogaster brevicornis
Leptogaster brevicornis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Loew in 1872. Robber flies are predatory dipterans known for their agile flight and aggressive hunting behavior. The genus Leptogaster comprises small, slender robber flies often found in grassy or brushy habitats. Specific ecological and behavioral details for this species remain poorly documented.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-fly loew-1872
Leptogaster californica
Leptogaster californica is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1957. It belongs to the subfamily Leptogastrinae, a group of slender, elongate robber flies often found in grassy or weedy habitats. The species is endemic to California, as indicated by its specific epithet. Like other members of the genus Leptogaster, it is likely a predator of small arthropods, though specific ecological data for this species are limited.
robber-fly asilidae california-endemic diptera predatory-fly
Leptogaster carolinensis
Leptogaster carolinensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Schiner in 1866. It belongs to the subfamily Leptogastrinae, a group characterized by slender, elongated bodies and distinctive predatory behaviors. The species epithet 'carolinensis' suggests a historical association with the Carolinas region of the eastern United States. As with other Leptogaster species, it is likely a small, delicate predator of other small arthropods.
robber-fly Asilidae Leptogastrinae Diptera predatory-fly
Leptogaster flavipes
Yellow-legged Pixie
Leptogaster flavipes is a small robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Yellow-legged Pixie. The species is distinguished by its notably slender body form and pale yellow legs, traits that set it apart from the generally more robust build typical of most robber flies. As a member of the genus Leptogaster, it exhibits the characteristic delicate morphology associated with this group of aerial predators. The species was described by Loew in 1862.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly slender-body yellow-legs aerial-predator diptera
Leptogaster fornicata
Leptogaster fornicata is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described by Martin in 1957. It belongs to the subfamily Leptogastrinae, a group characterized by slender, elongate bodies and distinctive predatory habits. Like other members of the genus Leptogaster, this species is likely adapted to capturing small prey in grassy or herbaceous vegetation. The species appears to be rarely collected or reported, with no observations recorded in iNaturalist as of the available data.
robber-fly Asilidae Leptogastrinae predatory-fly grassland-insect
Leptogaster hesperis
Leptogaster hesperis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1957. It belongs to the subfamily Leptogastrinae, a group characterized by slender, elongated bodies and distinctive predatory habits. The species name 'hesperis' refers to the western regions, suggesting a western North American distribution. Like other Leptogaster species, it is likely an aerial predator of small insects. Specific ecological details remain poorly documented due to limited study.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly Leptogastrinae predator western-North-America
Leptogaster lanata
Leptogaster lanata is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Martin in 1957. It belongs to the subfamily Leptogasterinae, a group characterized by slender, elongate bodies and distinctive predatory behaviors. The species epithet 'lanata' (meaning 'woolly' in Latin) suggests a possible covering of dense setae. Like other members of the genus Leptogaster, it is likely a predator of small insects, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented due to limited collection records.
Asilidae robber-fly Leptogasterinae predatory-fly Diptera Martin-1957 data-deficient slender-body-form woolly-setae insect-predator
Leptogaster lerneri
Leptogaster lerneri is a species of robber fly described by Curran in 1953. It belongs to the genus Leptogaster, a group of small, slender robber flies characterized by their elongated bodies and distinctive predatory behavior. The species is part of the subfamily Leptogastrinae, which comprises some of the most gracile members of the Asilidae family.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory Leptogastrinae North-America
Leptogaster murina
Leptogaster murina is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Hermann Loew in 1862. It belongs to the subfamily Leptogastrinae, a group characterized by slender, elongate bodies and distinctive predatory habits. The genus Leptogaster is known for its delicate, wasp-like appearance compared to more robust asilid genera. This species is part of a diverse lineage of aerial predators within the Diptera.
robber-fly Asilidae Leptogastrinae predatory-fly Diptera
Leptogaster obscuripes
Leptogaster obscuripes is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Loew in 1862. It belongs to the genus Leptogaster, which comprises small, slender robber flies often found in grassy or brushy habitats. Members of this genus are characterized by their elongated, delicate bodies and relatively long legs compared to other asilids. The species epithet 'obscuripes' refers to the darkened legs.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly grassland-insect small-asilid
Leptogaster panda
Leptogaster panda is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Martin in 1957. The genus Leptogaster comprises small, slender robber flies characterized by elongated bodies and distinctive predatory habits. No observations of this species have been recorded in iNaturalist, suggesting it may be rarely encountered or underreported.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Leptogaster patula
Leptogaster patula is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1957. It belongs to the genus Leptogaster, which comprises small, slender robber flies commonly known as 'gangling' flies due to their elongated bodies and long, thin legs. The species is part of the subfamily Leptogastrinae, a group distinguished by their distinctive morphology among Asilidae. Very limited information is available regarding the specific biology and ecology of this species.
robber-fly asilidae diptera leptogastrinae predatory-fly
Leptogaster schaefferi
Leptogaster schaefferi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Leptogastrinae. It was described by Back in 1909. Members of the genus Leptogaster are characterized by their slender, elongated bodies and are commonly known as 'thread-legged flies' due to their extremely long, thin legs. The species epithet 'schaefferi' honors an entomologist, following the common practice of the era.
Asilidae robber-fly thread-legged-fly Leptogastrinae predatory-fly
Leptogastrinae
Leptogastrinae is a subfamily of robber flies (Asilidae) comprising more than 450 described species. Members are distinguished from other asilids by their slender, elongate bodies and cryptic behavior in vegetation. Unlike the robust, bee-mimicking species common in other subfamilies, Leptogastrinae are nearly invisible as they navigate through tall grasses. They share the predatory habits characteristic of the family Asilidae.
Asilidae robber-flies predatory-flies slender-body-form grassland-insects
Leptopteromyia
Leptopteromyia is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Williston in 1907. The genus contains seven described species distributed across the Americas, from the United States to South America. These predatory flies are part of the diverse Asilidae family, known for their aggressive hunting behavior. Species within this genus were described primarily by Hardy (1947) and Martin (1971).
robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Asilidae
Leptopteromyia americana
Leptopteromyia americana is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Hardy in 1947. As a member of the predatory Asilidae, it likely exhibits the characteristic hunting behavior of the family, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented. The species is known from 119 iNaturalist observations, indicating it has been encountered with some regularity by naturalists, though published research on its biology is sparse.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Lestomyia strigipes
Lestomyia strigipes is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Curran in 1931. As a member of the subfamily Dasypogoninae, it belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies. The genus Lestomyia contains multiple species distributed across various regions. Like other asilids, this species is presumed to be an aerial predator, though specific biological details remain poorly documented.
asilidae robber-fly dasypogoninae predatory-fly curran-1931
Lestomyia unicolor
Lestomyia unicolor is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Charles Howard Curran in 1942. It belongs to the subfamily Dasypogoninae, a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The specific epithet 'unicolor' suggests uniform coloration, though detailed descriptions of the species remain limited in available literature. As a member of the Asilidae, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects, but species-specific biological data are sparse.
robber-fly Asilidae Dasypogoninae Nearctic Curran-1942
Machimus adustus
Machimus adustus is a species of robber fly described by Martin in 1975. As a member of the family Asilidae, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The species is classified within the subfamily Asilinae and tribe Machimini.
robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Asilidae Machimus 1975-description
Machimus callidus
robber fly
Machimus callidus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, originally described by Williston in 1893 under the genus Asilus. The species was later transferred to Machimus. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects known for their aerial hunting behavior.
robber-fly predator Asilidae Diptera North-America
Machimus erythocnemius
White-spined Bladetail
Machimus erythocnemius is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) first described by Hine in 1909. It is one of approximately 180 species in the genus Machimus, which is distributed across the Holarctic region. The common name "White-spined Bladetail" refers to distinctive morphological features. Like other robber flies, it is presumed to be an active aerial predator.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Machimus North-America
Machimus latipex
Machimus latipex is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. Robber flies are predatory insects known for their aerial hunting abilities. The genus Machimus is widespread in the Northern Hemisphere and contains numerous similar-looking species. Specific details about M. latipex remain limited in published literature.
robber-fly predator Diptera Asilidae
Machimus virginicus
Machimus virginicus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. The species was described by Banks in 1920. As a member of the Machimus genus, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their active hunting behavior. Very little specific information has been published about this particular species.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly Machimus
Mallophora
Bee-killers
Mallophora is a genus of large, robust robber flies (family Asilidae) commonly known as bee-killers. The genus contains approximately 60 described species distributed primarily in the Americas. Adults are powerful aerial predators that capture bees and other insects in flight, while larvae of at least some species are solitary ectoparasitoids of scarab beetle larvae (white grubs) in soil. Mallophora ruficauda, the best-studied species, is a significant pest of apiculture in the Pampas region of Argentina, where adults prey on honey bees, yet the same species functions as a beneficial biological control agent of agricultural pests through its larval parasitism of scarab grubs.
Asilidae robber-fly bee-killer parasitoid biological-control apiculture-pest heteromorphosis scarab-parasitoid bumble-bee-mimic Pampas Argentina honey-bee-predator white-grub-parasitoid active-host-seeking density-dependent-parasitism
Mallophora atra
Black Bee-Killer, Black Bee Killer
Mallophora atra, commonly known as the black bee-killer, is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It is found across much of Brazil, with records from 19 states including Amazonas, Pará, São Paulo, and Rio Grande do Sul. As a member of the genus Mallophora, it is a large, powerful predatory fly known for capturing and feeding on bees and other insects. The species was first described by Macquart in 1834.
robber-fly Asilidae predator Brazil endemic
Mallophora fautrix
Mallophora fautrix is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It belongs to a genus known for effective bumble bee mimicry, with species often exhibiting hairy bodies and distinctive antennal structures. The species was described by Osten Sacken in 1887. Like other Mallophora species, it is presumed to be a predatory fly, though specific ecological details for this species are not well documented in available sources.
robber-fly Asilidae bumble-bee-mimic
Mallophora orcina
Southern Bee-Killer
Mallophora orcina, commonly known as the southern bee killer, is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. This species is a notable bumble bee mimic, using its hairy appearance and coloration to resemble its hymenopteran prey. As a member of the genus Mallophora, it shares characteristics with other bee-mimicking robber flies but can be distinguished by specific morphological features. The species is part of a guild of predatory flies that actively hunt other insects in flight.
robber-fly bee-mimic predator asilidae diptera
Megaphorus
Megaphorus is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) containing approximately 18 described species. These predatory dipterans are found in western North America, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Adults are typically observed perching on vegetation, where they ambush flying insect prey. The genus was established by Bigot in 1857 and is classified within the tribe Apocleini of the subfamily Asilinae.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly western-North-America arid-habitat rabbitbrush-association
Megaphorus acrus
Hairy Robber Fly
Megaphorus acrus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Curran in 1931. It belongs to a genus characterized by large, hairy-bodied predatory flies. The species is part of the diverse Asilidae family, whose members are known for their aggressive hunting behavior and distinctive physical appearance. Like other robber flies, M. acrus is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly western-North-America
Megaphorus clausicellus
Megaphorus clausicellus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) originally described by Macquart in 1850 under the name Mallophora clausicella. Robber flies in this genus are predatory and typically associated with open, dry habitats. The species has been documented in the western United States, with observations from Nevada and other Great Basin localities. Like other members of the genus Megaphorus, adults are presumed to be aerial predators of other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory Great-Basin western-North-America
Megaphorus flavidus
Megaphorus flavidus is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) in the tribe Apocleini. It was described by Cole in 1964 and is currently accepted as a valid species. The genus Megaphorus comprises medium to large predatory flies known for their powerful flight and ambush hunting behavior. Information specific to this species is limited in the provided sources.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Apocleini Megaphorus flavidus Cole-1964 insect arthropod entomology
Megaphorus frustrus
Megaphorus frustrus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Pritchard in 1935 under the basionym Mallophorina frustra. The genus Megaphorus belongs to the tribe Apocleini within the subfamily Asilinae. Robber flies in this genus are large, powerful predators known for their robust build and predatory habits. Information specifically documenting M. frustrus is sparse in the provided sources, though the genus is known from western North American arid and semi-arid habitats.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly western-North-America Diptera Brachycera
Megaphorus laphroides
Megaphorus laphroides is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wiedemann in 1828. It belongs to the tribe Apocleini within the subfamily Asilinae. The genus Megaphorus contains species of medium to large predatory flies that hunt other insects. Like other robber flies, M. laphroides likely exhibits the characteristic predatory behavior of ambushing prey in flight using its strong legs and piercing mouthparts.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Apocleini Nearctic
Megaphorus pallidus
Megaphorus pallidus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Johnson in 1958. The genus Megaphorus belongs to the subfamily Asilinae and tribe Apocleini. Robber flies in this genus are characterized by their predatory behavior and robust body form. Limited information is available regarding the specific biology and ecology of this particular species.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly Apocleini Asilinae
Megaphorus prudens
Megaphorus prudens is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, originally described by Pritchard in 1935. Robber flies in the genus Megaphorus are generally large, predatory insects known for their robust build and powerful flight. The species is poorly documented in the primary literature, with minimal published information regarding its biology, distribution, or distinguishing characteristics.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Megaphorus Diptera Brachycera
Metadioctria rubida
Metadioctria rubida is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Coquillett in 1893. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects that capture other arthropods in flight. The species name 'rubida' (Latin for 'reddish') may refer to coloration, though specific diagnostic features distinguishing this species from congeners are not well documented in available sources.
Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly robber-fly
Metapogon amargosae
Metapogon amargosae is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1972. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group characterized by reduced wing venation and generally small to medium body size. The specific epithet references the Amargosa region, suggesting a geographic association with desert environments in the southwestern United States. Like other asilids, it is presumed to be an aerial predator, though direct observations of its biology remain limited.
robber-fly Asilidae desert-fauna rarely-observed
Metapogon gibber
Metapogon gibber is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Williston in 1883. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group characterized by reduced wing venation and generally small to medium body size. As with other asilids, it is presumed to be a predatory species, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented. The genus Metapogon contains multiple species distributed primarily in North America.
robber-fly Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae predatory-fly North-American-fauna
Microstylum
Giant Robber Flies
Microstylum is a genus of large robber flies (family Asilidae) containing at least 130 described species. The genus includes North America's largest robber fly, Microstylum morosum, which reaches 35–50 mm in body length. Species in this genus are characterized by their substantial size relative to other Asilidae and a mystax (facial beard) confined to the oral margin and composed of stout bristles. The genus has a broad distribution with species occurring in North America, the Neotropics, and Madagascar.
Asilidae Diptera robber-flies giant-robber-flies Microstylum-morosum Microstylum-galactodes hilltopping prairie-insects Great-Plains-fauna
Microstylum galactodes
Giant Gray Robber Fly
Microstylum galactodes is a large robber fly in the family Asilidae, native to the southcentral and southwestern United States. It is one of two North American species in the genus Microstylum, distinguished from the larger M. morosum by its milky white wing membranes, reddish-brown body coloration, and even whitish pruinescence covering the head and thoracic dorsum. The species is primarily associated with short grass prairies and scrub lands, showing a more western distribution than its congener. It was described by Loew in 1866.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly prairie-insect
Microstylum morosum
Giant Prairie Robber Fly
Microstylum morosum is the largest robber fly in North America, with body lengths reaching 35–50 mm. The species was long considered endemic to Texas until range extensions were documented into Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Missouri, and southwestern states. It inhabits prairie and grassland ecosystems, where adults are active predators. The species exhibits distinctive emerald-green eyes and a relatively hairless, streamlined body compared to other large asilids.
robber-fly asilidae prairie Great-Plains giant-insect predator hilltopping
Myelaphus
Myelaphus is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by Bigot in 1882. The genus contains approximately six described species distributed primarily in Asia. Members of this genus are predatory dipterans that hunt other insects in flight.
robber-fly predatory-fly Asilidae Diptera poorly-known-genus Asian-fauna North-American-fauna
Myelaphus melas
Myelaphus melas is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bigot in 1882. Robber flies in this family are predatory insects known for their aerial hunting abilities. The genus Myelaphus is part of the diverse asilid fauna of North America.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Nannocyrtopogon
Nannocyrtopogon is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) comprising at least 20 described species. Members of this genus are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight. The genus was established by Wilcox and Martin in 1936 and is classified within the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae and tribe Ceraturgini. These flies are found in the Nearctic and Neotropical regions.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly aerial-predator nearctic neotropical desert-fauna sit-and-wait-predator
Nannocyrtopogon atripes
Nannocyrtopogon atripes is a species of robber fly described by Wilcox & Martin in 1936. It belongs to the family Asilidae, a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The species is placed in the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae and tribe Ceraturgini. Specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented in published literature.
robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Asilidae Ceraturgini Brachyrhopalinae
Nannocyrtopogon irvinei
Nannocyrtopogon irvinei is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Wilcox & Martin in 1957. It belongs to the tribe Ceraturgini within the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. As with other members of its family, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects, though specific biological details remain poorly documented.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Nannocyrtopogon vanduzeei
Nannocyrtopogon vanduzeei is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox and Martin in 1936. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae and tribe Ceraturgini. Like other robber flies, this species is predatory, though specific behavioral and ecological details remain poorly documented in published literature.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly Brachyrhopalinae Ceraturgini Nannocyrtopogon vanduzeei Wilcox-&-Martin-1936 insect entomology
Nannodioctria
Nannodioctria is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Wilcox and Martin in 1942. It is currently treated as a synonym of Dioctria, specifically as the subgenus Dioctria (Nannodioctria). The genus belongs to the subfamily Dioctriinae, a group of small, often slender robber flies. Very few observations or specimens have been documented, with only a single iNaturalist observation recorded.
robber-fly Asilidae Dioctriinae synonym small-genus rarely-observed
Neoitamus flavofemoratus
Yellow-thighed Bentbristle
Neoitamus flavofemoratus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. The common name "Yellow-thighed Bentbristle" refers to the distinctive yellow coloration on the femora. As with other robber flies, it is a predatory species. It has been documented in over 1,100 observations on iNaturalist.
robber-fly predator Diptera Asilidae yellow-femora Neoitamus Yellow-thighed-Bentbristle Hine-1909 Asilus-flavofemoratus-(synonym)
Neoitamus orphne
Dark Bentbristle
Neoitamus orphne is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Dark Bentbristle. It belongs to a genus of predatory flies characterized by their robust build and predatory behavior. The species has been documented in North America, particularly in the northeastern United States.
robber-fly asilidae predatory diptera
Neomochtherus
Neomochtherus is a large genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) comprising at least 140 described species. These predatory insects are associated with grassland habitats, where they play a role in suppressing other invertebrate populations. The genus includes species of conservation concern, such as the Critically Endangered Neomochtherus pallipes (Devon Red-legged Robberfly).
Asilidae robber-fly predator grassland conservation Neomochtherus-pallipes Devon-Red-legged-Robberfly Critically-Endangered agri-environment-scheme integrated-pest-management
Neomochtherus californicus
Neomochtherus californicus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Hine in 1909. The species belongs to the tribe Neomochtherini within the subfamily Asilinae. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects known for their agile flight and ambush hunting behavior. The specific epithet "californicus" indicates the species was originally described from California.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly California-endemic
Neomochtherus comosus
Neomochtherus comosus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Hine in 1918. It belongs to the tribe Neomochtherini within the subfamily Asilinae. Like other robber flies, it is a predatory insect. Very few observations of this species have been recorded.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera
Neomochtherus latipennis
Neomochtherus latipennis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Hine in 1909. As a member of the tribe Neomochtherini, it belongs to a group of predatory flies characterized by their hunting behavior. The species has been documented through 76 observations on iNaturalist, indicating it is encountered with moderate frequency by naturalists. Like other robber flies, it likely plays a role as an aerial predator in its habitat.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-insect neomochtherini
Neomochtherus pallipes
Devon red-legged robber fly
Neomochtherus pallipes, commonly known as the Devon red-legged robber fly, is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. The species is listed as Critically Endangered in the UK and is endemic to or strongly associated with the Devon region of southwest England. It inhabits species-rich grasslands where it serves as a predator of other insects. Conservation efforts for this species are tied to habitat management practices including cattle grazing that maintains structural diversity in grassland swards.
robber-fly Asilidae Critically-Endangered Devon species-rich-grassland cattle-grazing endemic conservation-flagship
Neomochtherus piceus
Neomochtherus piceus is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described by Hine in 1909. It belongs to the tribe Neomochtherini within the subfamily Asilinae. The genus Neomochtherus comprises predatory flies found in grassland habitats. Based on iNaturalist records, this species has been documented in at least 28 observations, indicating it is not exceptionally rare but remains poorly studied in the scientific literature.
Asilidae robber-fly grassland predatory-fly Neomochtherini Diptera
Nevadasilus
Nevadasilus is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Artigas & Papavero in 1995. The genus is recognized within the diverse Asilidae family, which comprises predatory flies known for their aerial hunting behavior. Records indicate the genus contains species distributed in western North America, particularly associated with arid and semi-arid regions. The genus name reflects its documented occurrence in Nevada and surrounding areas.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly western-North-America Great-Basin aridland-insect
Nevadasilus auriannulatus
Nevadasilus auriannulatus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) first described by Hine in 1906. It is one of only two recognized species in the genus Nevadasilus, a small genus endemic to western North America. The species has been documented through 143 iNaturalist observations, indicating moderate but growing awareness among naturalists. As a member of the Asilidae, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects, though specific ecological studies on this species remain limited.
robber-fly Asilidae western-North-America Great-Basin endemic-genus aerial-predator
Nevadasilus blantoni
Nevadasilus blantoni is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) in the genus Nevadasilus. It is a predatory dipteran endemic to the western United States, specifically associated with Nevada and surrounding arid regions. The species is named in honor of entomologist John Blanton. As with other Asilidae, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects, though detailed studies of its biology remain limited.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory western-United-States Nevada-endemic endemic rare aerial-predator entomology John-Blanton eponym
Nicocles bromleyi
Nicocles bromleyi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by George H. Hardy in 1943. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group of relatively small and slender asilids. The genus Nicocles is restricted to the New World, with species distributed primarily in arid and semi-arid regions. This species is poorly known, with no documented observations in major biodiversity databases and limited published biological information.
robber-fly asilidae brachyrhopalinae rare poorly-known nearctic neotropical hardy-1943 diptera
Nicocles canadensis
Nicocles canadensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Charles Howard Curran in 1923. As a member of the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, it belongs to a group of relatively small, slender robber flies. The genus Nicocles contains several North American species, with N. canadensis representing one of the documented members of this genus. Like other asilids, it is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific behavioral and ecological details remain poorly documented in published literature.
robber-fly Diptera Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae predatory-fly North-America Canada
Nicocles dives
Nicocles dives is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) first described by Hermann Loew in 1866. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group of predatory flies characterized by their stout bodies and aggressive hunting behavior. The species is part of the diverse genus Nicocles, which contains multiple species distributed across various regions. As with other robber flies, N. dives is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects, though specific behavioral observations remain limited in the available literature.
robber-fly Diptera Asilidae predatory-fly Brachyrhopalinae insect-predator
Nicocles engelhardti
Nicocles engelhardti is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Wilcox in 1946. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group characterized by relatively short antennae and modified leg structures. Like other asilids, it is presumed to be an active aerial predator. The species is known from very few records, with limited documentation of its biology and ecology.
robber-fly asilidae brachyrhopalinae predatory-fly rare-species 1946-description
Nicocles pictus
Nicocles pictus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Loew in 1866. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae and the genus Nicocles. The species is part of a diverse group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. As with other Asilidae, it is presumed to be an active aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae Brachyrhopalinae predatory-fly Diptera
Nicocles politus
Nicocles politus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, originally described by Thomas Say in 1823 as Dasypogon politus. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae. The genus Nicocles is a small group within the diverse robber fly family, which comprises predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. Very little species-specific information has been published about N. politus.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Nicocles rufus
Nicocles rufus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Williston in 1883. The species belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae and is placed in the genus Nicocles. As with other robber flies, it is a predatory insect. Available information about this species is limited, with only four observations documented on iNaturalist.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Brachyrhopalinae
Nicocles utahensis
Nicocles utahensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Nathan Banks in 1920. It belongs to the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, a group of small to medium-sized robber flies. The species epithet "utahensis" indicates its association with the state of Utah. Like other robber flies, it is a predatory insect that hunts other insects in flight.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory Utah Banks-1920 Brachyrhopalinae
Ommatius
Plumetops
Ommatius is a large and morphologically diverse genus of robber flies (Diptera: Asilidae) within the subfamily Asilinae. The genus contains numerous species distributed across multiple biogeographic regions, with particularly well-documented diversity in the Afrotropical region and the Americas. Species are organized into multiple species groups based on morphological characteristics. Like other Asilidae, members of this genus are predatory as both larvae and adults. The genus has been subject to extensive taxonomic revision due to its high species diversity and complex morphological variation.
robber-fly assassin-fly predatory Diptera Asilidae Ommatiinae Afrotropical Neotropical Nearctic taxonomy-intensive high-species-diversity morphological-variation species-groups terminalia-important-for-ID
Ommatius baboquivari
Ommatius baboquivari is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1936. As a member of the genus Ommatius, it belongs to one of the most diverse genera within this large family of predatory flies. Robber flies in this genus share the characteristic predatory lifestyle of Asilidae, hunting other insects as adults. The species epithet references Baboquivari, likely indicating a type locality or geographic association with the Baboquivari Mountains or region in the southwestern United States.
robber-fly assassin-fly predatory-fly Diptera Asilidae Ommatius North-America 1936-description
Ommatius gemma
Ommatius gemma is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Brimley in 1928. As a member of the genus Ommatius, it belongs to one of the most diverse genera within the Asilidae. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects known for their venomous hunting strategy and distinctive facial morphology. The species is part of a family containing over 7,500 described species worldwide, with many species remaining poorly studied.
robber-fly assassin-fly predatory venomous Diptera Asilidae Ommatius
Ommatius ouachitensis
robber fly, assassin fly
Ommatius ouachitensis is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Bullington & Lavigne in 1984. As with other members of this large predatory fly family, it likely exhibits the characteristic hunting behavior of intercepting insect prey in flight. The specific epithet "ouachitensis" suggests an association with the Ouachita Mountains or Ouachita River region of North America. Like other Ommatius species, it probably perches on vegetation in sunny locations to hunt.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera North-America Ouachita
Ommatius wilcoxi
robber fly, assassin fly
Ommatius wilcoxi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Bullington & Lavigne in 1984. The genus Ommatius is one of the most diverse genera within Asilidae, with species distributed across multiple continents. Like other assassin flies, O. wilcoxi is predatory in both larval and adult stages. The species is part of a family containing over 7,500 described species worldwide, though many remain poorly known.
Asilidae robber-fly assassin-fly predatory-fly Diptera
Omninablautus
Omninablautus is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Pritchard in 1935. The genus contains three described species: O. arenosus, O. nigronotum, and O. tolandi. Robber flies in this family are predatory insects known for their agile flight and ability to capture other insects in mid-air.
robber-flies Asilidae predatory Diptera
Orthogonis stygia
Orthogonis stygia is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1931. The specific epithet 'stygia' references the underworld or darkness, suggesting possible associations with dim habitats or the predatory nature of these flies. Robber flies are predatory insects known for their aggressive hunting behavior and are important components of terrestrial arthropod communities. The genus Orthogonis is part of the diverse Asilidae family, which contains over 7,000 described species worldwide.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly diptera
Ospriocerus
robber flies
Ospriocerus is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) containing approximately 17 described species. These large, predatory flies are primarily associated with grassland and prairie habitats across western North America. Several species exhibit mimetic coloration resembling spider wasps (Pompilidae), with black bodies and red or orange abdominal markings. The genus has been documented as far north as Canada and south into Mexico. Species such as O. abdominalis represent significant range extensions when found in eastern localities, highlighting the importance of remnant prairie conservation.
robber-fly prairie grassland mimicry conservation range-extension new-state-record Missouri Loess-Hills Great-Plains wasp-mimic Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly endangered-habitat hypsithermal-relict
Ospriocerus aeacidinus
robber fly
Ospriocerus aeacidinus is a large robber fly (family Asilidae) native to western North America. The species was historically recorded as far east as Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, but has been documented in recent years in relictual hilltop prairie habitats in northwestern Missouri and southwestern Illinois—representing significant eastern range extensions. Adults are active predators with wasp-mimetic coloration. The species is considered a grassland specialist associated with dry prairie remnants, particularly those linked to the Loess Hills landform.
robber-fly asilidae prairie-obligate range-extension hypsithermal-relict conservation wasp-mimicry loess-hills great-plains
Ospriocerus brevis
Ospriocerus brevis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1968. The species is currently recognized as a synonym of Stenopogon brevis in some taxonomic databases. Robber flies in the genus Ospriocerus are large, predatory flies associated with grassland habitats in western North America.
robber-fly Asilidae synonym Stenopogon western-North-America grassland predatory-fly Martin-1968
Ospriocerus latipennis
Ospriocerus latipennis is a robber fly species in the family Asilidae, one of three Ospriocerus species recorded in Canada. It inhabits grassland habitats on the Great Plains. The species has been documented in association with the beetle family Meloidae, though the nature of this relationship requires further investigation. As with other robber flies, adults are presumed to be predatory.
Asilidae robber-fly Great-Plains grassland prairie Meloidae-association predatory-fly
Ospriocerus longulus
Ospriocerus longulus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It belongs to the subfamily Dasypogoninae. The species was originally described by Loew in 1866 under the name Stenopogon longulus. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects that capture other flying insects in flight. The genus Ospriocerus contains species distributed across western North America, with some species representing significant range extensions when found in relictual prairie habitats.
Asilidae robber-fly Dasypogoninae predatory-fly western-North-America
Ospriocerus minos
Ospriocerus minos is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, originally described by Osten Sacken in 1877. The species has been treated as a synonym of Stenopogon minos in some taxonomic databases, indicating ongoing taxonomic uncertainty. As a member of the subfamily Stenopogoninae, it belongs to a group of predatory flies characterized by their streamlined bodies and predatory habits. Very few observations of this species have been documented, with only a single iNaturalist record noted.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae predatory-fly data-deficient taxonomic-uncertainty western-North-America
Ospriocerus tenebrosus
Dark robber fly
Ospriocerus tenebrosus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. The species was originally described by Coquillett in 1904 under the genus Stenopogon and later transferred to Ospriocerus. It is currently recognized as a synonym of Stenopogon tenebrosus in some taxonomic databases, reflecting ongoing taxonomic uncertainty or reclassification within the Stenopogoninae subfamily. As a member of the robber flies, it belongs to a predatory group of dipterans known for their aerial hunting behavior and distinctive morphology.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly synonym Stenopogon North-America taxonomic-uncertainty
Ospriocerus tequilae
Ospriocerus tequilae is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1968. The genus Ospriocerus contains large, wasp-mimicking robber flies found in grassland habitats of western North America. The specific epithet 'tequilae' presumably refers to the type locality in Mexico. The species is currently treated as a synonym of Stenopogon tequilae in some taxonomic databases, reflecting ongoing taxonomic uncertainty in the classification of this group.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae wasp-mimic grassland western-North-America Mexico synonym Stenopogon predatory-fly Diptera
Ospriocerus vallensis
Ospriocerus vallensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Martin in 1968. It is one of three Ospriocerus species recorded in Canada, where it occurs in the Intermontane grasslands of southern British Columbia. The species was previously misidentified in collections and literature as O. abdominalis or O. aeacus. The genus Ospriocerus has a documented relationship with the beetle family Meloidae.
robber-fly Asilidae Intermontane-grasslands British-Columbia misidentification Meloidae-association new-Canadian-record
Parataracticus
Parataracticus is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Cole in 1924. The genus contains seven described species distributed in North America, with most species described by Martin and Wilcox in the mid-20th century. As members of the Asilidae family, species in this genus are predatory flies that capture prey in flight.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly North-America Diptera
Plesiomma unicolor
Plesiomma unicolor is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Loew in 1866. As a member of this predatory family, it likely exhibits the characteristic hunting behavior typical of asilid flies. The species epithet "unicolor" suggests uniform coloration. Available records indicate it is a rarely observed species with limited documentation.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-fly
Pogonosoma
robber flies
Pogonosoma is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by Camillo Rondani in 1856. The genus comprises approximately 17 described species. Members of this genus are predatory dipterans that capture other insects in flight. As part of the diverse Asilidae family, they share the characteristic robust body form and predatory habits typical of robber flies.
robber-flies predatory Diptera Asilidae Rondani-1856
Pogonosoma dorsatum
Eastern Black Chiselmouth
Pogonosoma dorsatum is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) commonly known as the Eastern Black Chiselmouth. The species was originally described as Laphria dorsata by Thomas Say in 1824 before being transferred to the genus Pogonosoma. As a member of the Asilidae, it belongs to a family of predatory flies known for aggressive hunting behavior.
robber-fly predatory-fly Asilidae Diptera insect Eastern-Black-Chiselmouth
Pogonosoma ridingsi
Pogonosoma ridingsi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Cresson in 1920. Members of this genus are characterized by distinctively modified facial structures. As with other asilids, this species is presumed to be an active aerial predator.
Diptera Asilidae robber-fly predator
Polacantha
Polacantha is a genus of robber flies (Asilidae) established by Martin in 1975. The genus contains approximately 10 described species distributed primarily in the Americas. Species in this genus are predatory flies that hunt other insects in flight. Most species were described by Martin in his 1975 revision of the genus.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly diptera martin-1975 new-world
Polacantha arcuata
Polacantha arcuata is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1975. The species belongs to a genus of predatory flies known for their robust morphology and aerial hunting behavior. Very few documented observations of this species exist in public databases.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly
Polacantha composita
Polacantha composita is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, originally described as Asilus compositus by Hine in 1918. Robber flies are predatory dipterans known for their agile flight and aggressive hunting behavior. The genus Polacantha is part of this diverse family of aerial predators.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Polacantha grossa
Polacantha grossa is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Martin in 1975. The species belongs to the subfamily Asilinae and tribe Asilini. As with other robber flies, it is a predatory insect that captures prey in flight. The genus Polacantha is part of the diverse asilid fauna, though specific details about this particular species remain limited in published literature.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera
Pritchardomyia
Pritchardomyia is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by Wilcox in 1965. The genus contains at least one described species, Pritchardomyia vespoides. As members of Asilidae, species in this genus are predatory flies. The genus is relatively poorly documented in scientific literature.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera genus
Proctacanthella
Proctacanthella is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) comprising approximately eight described species. The genus was established by Bromley in 1934. Species within this genus are predatory, with documented prey recognition behaviors in at least one species.
Asilidae robber-flies predatory-flies
Proctacanthella exquisita
Proctacanthella exquisita is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Osten Sacken in 1887. As a member of the genus Proctacanthella, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their active hunting behavior. The specific epithet "exquisita" suggests distinctive or refined characteristics, though detailed species-level documentation remains limited.
robber-fly predatory-fly Asilidae Diptera Proctacanthella
Proctacanthella robusta
Proctacanthella robusta is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1951. The genus Proctacanthella comprises predatory flies characterized by their robust build and predatory habits. As a member of the Asilidae family, this species is presumed to be an active aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly Diptera Asilidae predator insect
Proctacanthella willistoni
Proctacanthella willistoni is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Fisher and Wilcox in 1987. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects that hunt other arthropods. The specific epithet honors entomologist Samuel Wendell Williston, a prominent figure in early American dipterology.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory entomology
Proctacanthus
Marauders
Proctacanthus is a genus of large robber flies (family Asilidae) comprising approximately 18 described species distributed primarily in North America. These predatory insects are characterized by their robust build, prominent facial beard, and aggressive hunting behavior. The genus name translates from Greek as 'spiny butt' or 'spiny rear', referring to a distinctive morphological feature. Species within this genus are notable for their ferocious predation on other insects, with some species showing strong dietary preferences for particular prey types such as grasshoppers.
robber-fly predator grasshopper-predator sand-habitat soil-oviposition North-America Asilidae Diptera
Proctacanthus brevipennis
Proctacanthus brevipennis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, characterized by the genus name meaning 'spiny butt' in reference to abdominal features. The specific epithet 'brevipennis' refers to short wings. Like other members of Proctacanthus, it is presumed to be a large, predatory fly with a prominent mystax (beard).
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly
Proctacanthus fulviventris
Proctacanthus fulviventris is a large robber fly in the nominate subfamily Asilinae, reaching 25–30 mm in length. The species is a Florida near-endemic with its distribution extending minimally into southern Georgia. It is distinguished by a bright yellow mystax (beard), black femora with red tibiae, and reddish abdominal terga. Females have been observed ovipositing in loose sandy soils.
robber-fly Asilidae Florida-endemic sand-pine-scrub large-predatory-fly
Proctacanthus hinei
Western Red-tailed Marauder
Proctacanthus hinei is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) known as the Western Red-tailed Marauder. It belongs to a genus of large, predatory flies characterized by prominent beards and aggressive hunting behavior. The species is distinguished from congeners by reddish femora and occurrence in the central United States. Like other Proctacanthus species, it preys primarily on other insects and has a life cycle involving soil-dwelling larvae.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly diptera central-united-states insect-predator
Proctacanthus nigriventris
Proctacanthus nigriventris is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. Like other members of the genus Proctacanthus, it is a large, predatory fly. The genus name derives from Greek, referring to the spiny appearance of the abdomen. Species in this genus are known for their aggressive predatory behavior and soil-associated life cycle.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera
Proctacanthus occidentalis
Proctacanthus occidentalis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Hine in 1911. The genus Proctacanthus comprises large, predatory flies characterized by a prominent mystax (beard) on the face. Species in this genus are known to lay eggs in soil crevices, with larvae feeding on soil-dwelling insects and organic matter. P. occidentalis is one of several species in the genus distributed across North America, though specific details distinguishing it from congeners remain limited in available literature.
robber-fly asilidae predator diptera
Proctacanthus philadelphicus
northeastern marauder
Proctacanthus philadelphicus, commonly known as the northeastern marauder, is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. As with other members of the genus Proctacanthus, this species is a large, predatory fly. Robber flies in this genus are characterized by their prominent facial beards and aggressive hunting behavior. The specific epithet 'philadelphicus' suggests an association with the Philadelphia region, indicating part of its geographic range.
robber-fly Asilidae predator Diptera Proctacanthus northeastern-United-States
Proctacanthus rodecki
Proctacanthus rodecki is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by James in 1933. It belongs to a genus of large, predatory flies known for their robust build and prominent facial beard. Like other members of Proctacanthus, this species is presumed to be a formidable aerial predator. The genus name translates to "spiny butt," referring to a characteristic abdominal feature.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-fly insect
Proctacanthus rufus
eastern red-tailed marauder
Proctacanthus rufus, commonly known as the eastern red-tailed marauder, is a predatory robber fly in the family Asilidae. The species was described by Samuel Wendell Williston in 1885. Like other Asilidae, it is an aerial predator that captures prey in flight. The common name references its reddish abdominal coloration and its distribution in eastern North America.
robber-fly predator Diptera Asilidae North-America 1885-description
Prolatiforceps
Prolatiforceps is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) established by Martin in 1975. Members of this genus belong to the subfamily Asilinae and tribe Asilini. The genus is rarely documented, with only two observations recorded on iNaturalist. As with other robber flies, species in this genus are predatory as adults.
robber-flies Diptera Asilidae predatory-flies rarely-documented
Prolatiforceps fulviventris
Prolatiforceps fulviventris is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, originally described as Asilus fulviventris by Schäffer in 1916. The species was later transferred to the genus Prolatiforceps. Robber flies in this genus are predatory insects characterized by their robust build, strong flying ability, and raptorial legs adapted for capturing prey in flight. As a member of the subfamily Asilinae, it belongs to one of the most diverse groups of robber flies.
robber-fly predatory-fly Asilidae Diptera insect
Promachella
Promachella is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) described by Cole and Pritchard in 1964. The genus contains at least one described species, P. pilosa. Robber flies in this family are predatory insects known for their aerial hunting behavior. Information about Promachella is limited, with few documented observations.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory
Promachella pilosa
Promachella pilosa is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1937. The genus Promachella is a small group within the diverse Asilidae, with limited published information on its biology and ecology. As with other robber flies, this species is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific behavioral and ecological details remain undocumented in available sources.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly
Promachus aldrichii
Promachus aldrichii is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It belongs to the genus Promachus, commonly known as the 'giant robber flies,' which are large, conspicuous predatory flies. Like other members of its genus, it is a formidable aerial predator capable of capturing a wide range of flying insects. The species was described by Hine in 1911.
Asilidae robber-fly predator Diptera Promachus giant-robber-fly
Promachus fitchii
Promachus fitchii is a robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Osten Sacken in 1878. Like other members of the genus Promachus, it is a predatory dipteran. The species is part of the Apocleini tribe within the Asilinae subfamily. Documentation for this species is limited, with 37 observations recorded on iNaturalist.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly
Promachus sackeni
Promachus sackeni is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. The genus Promachus comprises large, conspicuous predatory flies commonly known as 'giant robber flies.' Like other members of this genus, P. sackeni is a formidable aerial predator capable of capturing substantial flying prey. The species was described by Hine in 1911.
robber-fly Asilidae predator giant-robber-fly Diptera aerial-predator tiger-striped Promachus Hine-1911 Apocleini Asilinae
Promachus vertebratus
Promachus vertebratus is a robber fly in the family Asilidae, one of three "tiger-striped" Promachus species in eastern North America characterized by yellow and black abdominal striping. It is distinguished from the more southern P. hinei and more southeastern P. rufipes by specific leg and abdominal coloration patterns. Like other Promachus species, it is a large, conspicuous aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly Asilidae aerial-predator tiger-striped
Pseudorus
Pseudorus is a genus of robber flies (Asilidae) established by Walker in 1851. Members of this genus belong to the tribe Megapodini within the subfamily Dasypogoninae. The genus is characterized by large-bodied flies with notably enlarged hind femora, a trait reflected in its tribal affiliation. As with other Asilidae, species in this genus are predatory as adults.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Megapodini Dasypogoninae
Psilocurus
Psilocurus is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) containing approximately 13-14 described species. These predatory dipterans are part of the diverse asilid fauna, though specific biological details for most species remain poorly documented. The genus was established by Hermann Loew in 1874.
robber-flies Asilidae predatory-flies Diptera Loew-1874
Psilonyx
Psilonyx is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by Aldrich in 1923. The genus contains approximately 14 described species. As members of Asilidae, species in this genus are predatory flies, though specific biological details for most Psilonyx species remain poorly documented.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly arthropod-predator
Psilonyx annulatus
Ringed Pixie
Psilonyx annulatus is a small species of robber fly (family Asilidae) commonly known as the Ringed Pixie. The species was first described by Thomas Say in 1823 and is widely distributed across North America. Robber flies in this genus are diminutive predators that hunt small flying insects.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predator North-America small-size banded-wings
Rhadiurgus
Rhadiurgus is a genus of robber flies (Asilidae) established by Loew in 1849. The genus contains at least one confirmed species, Rhadiurgus variabilis, which occurs in the Holarctic region. Members of this genus are predatory dipterans that hunt other insects in flight.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly Holarctic
Rhadiurgus variabilis
Rhadiurgus variabilis is a Holarctic robber fly in the family Asilidae. The species was originally described as Asilus variabilis by Zetterstedt in 1838. Records indicate presence in northwestern Europe including Belgium, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
robber-fly Holarctic Asilidae
Saropogon
robber flies, assassin flies
Saropogon is a genus of predatory robber flies (Asilidae) comprising at least 128 described species globally. The genus is distinguished by a stout, often twisted spur at the antero-ventral apex of the fore tibiae, open cell m3 on the wing, and an antennal stylus with a single element. Nearctic species north of Mexico include 19 recognized species, with many exhibiting pronounced sexual dimorphism in coloration and wing patterns. Adults are venomous aerial predators that immobilize prey through extra-oral digestion initiated by injected venom.
Asilidae robber-flies assassin-flies predatory-flies sexual-dimorphism Nearctic Palearctic Hymenoptera-predators citizen-science taxonomy
Saropogon albifrons
Saropogon albifrons is a species of assassin fly (family Asilidae) described by Back in 1904. It belongs to the subfamily Dasypogoninae and tribe Saropogonini. Like other members of the genus Saropogon, it is a predatory fly with venomous capabilities. The species is part of the Nearctic fauna, with documented observations primarily from western North America.
Asilidae assassin-fly robber-fly predatory-fly Nearctic Dasypogoninae Saropogonini Saropogon albifrons Back-1904
Saropogon coquilletti
Saropogon coquilletti is a species of assassin fly (family Asilidae) first described by Back in 1909. It belongs to the genus Saropogon, which was reviewed for Nearctic species north of Mexico by Charlotte Herbert Alberts as part of her dissertation research on assassin fly systematics. Like other members of the Asilidae, this species is a predatory fly with venomous capabilities. The species is part of a group that has received recent taxonomic attention due to the discovery and description of related new species in the southwestern United States.
Asilidae assassin-fly robber-fly predatory-fly Nearctic Saropogon Diptera Brachycera systematics Dasypogoninae Saropogonini
Saropogon hypomelas
Saropogon hypomelas is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Loew in 1866. As a member of the genus Saropogon, it belongs to a group of predatory flies that are venomous and feed on other insects. The genus Saropogon was the subject of a 2023 taxonomic review by Charlotte Herbert Alberts, which examined all Nearctic species north of Mexico. Like other assassin flies, S. hypomelas likely plays a role as an aerial predator in its ecosystem.
Asilidae robber-fly assassin-fly predatory-fly Nearctic Diptera
Saropogon purus
Saropogon purus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Curran in 1930. It belongs to the subfamily Dasypogoninae and tribe Saropogonini. As with other Asilidae, this species is a predatory fly, though specific ecological details for S. purus remain undocumented in available sources.
robber-fly assassin-fly Asilidae Dasypogoninae Saropogonini Curran-1930
Saropogon semiustus
Saropogon semiustus is a species of assassin fly (family Asilidae) described by Coquillett in 1904. It belongs to the subfamily Dasypogoninae and tribe Saropogonini. As with other members of the genus Saropogon, it is a predatory fly, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented. The genus Saropogon has been the subject of recent taxonomic revision work focusing on Nearctic species.
Diptera Asilidae predatory-fly Nearctic Coquillett-1904 Dasypogoninae Saropogonini
Saropogon senex
Saropogon senex is a species of assassin fly (family Asilidae) described by Osten Sacken in 1887. As a member of the genus Saropogon, it belongs to the tribe Saropogonini within the subfamily Dasypogoninae. The genus Saropogon is part of a taxonomic group that has been subject to recent revisionary work for the Nearctic fauna north of Mexico. Assassin flies in this genus, like other Asilidae, function as aerial predators of other arthropods.
Asilidae assassin-fly robber-fly Dasypogoninae Saropogonini Nearctic predatory-fly Diptera Osten-Sacken-1887 Saropogon aerial-predator arthropod-predator venomous-fly
Scleropogon bradleyi
Scleropogon bradleyi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, a group of predatory dipterans known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The species was originally described as Stenopogon bradleyi by Bromley in 1937 before being transferred to the genus Scleropogon. As with other asilids, it likely preys on other insects, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented. The genus Scleropogon comprises medium to large robber flies found primarily in arid and semi-arid regions of western North America.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory Diptera Scleropogon Bromley-1937 Stenopogon-bradleyi
Scleropogon cinerascens
Scleropogon cinerascens is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Back in 1909. Originally described as Stenopogon cinerascens, it was later transferred to the genus Scleropogon. Robber flies are predatory insects known for their robust build, large eyes, and raptorial legs adapted for capturing prey in flight. The specific epithet 'cinerascens' refers to an ash-grey or ashen coloration, likely describing the species' appearance. As with other Asilidae, this species is presumed to be an active aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly asilidae predatory-fly diptera insect predator
Scleropogon coyote
Scleropogon coyote is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1931. The genus Scleropogon comprises predatory flies characterized by their distinctive elongated morphology and aggressive hunting behavior. As a member of this genus, S. coyote likely exhibits the typical asilid predatory lifestyle, though specific biological details remain poorly documented in available literature.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Scleropogon Bromley-1931
Scleropogon dispar
Scleropogon dispar is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) described by Bromley in 1937. The genus Scleropogon belongs to a diverse family of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. Very little specific information is documented about this particular species.
robber-fly asilidae diptera predatory-fly
Scleropogon huachucanus
Scleropogon huachucanus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Hardy in 1942. The specific epithet references the Huachuca Mountains of Arizona, suggesting a southwestern U.S. distribution. Like other Asilidae, this species is presumed to be a predatory fly, though specific behavioral and ecological details remain poorly documented. The genus Scleropogon is characterized by distinctive morphological features including a bearded face and elongated body form.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predatory-fly Huachuca-Mountains Arizona endemic rarely-collected
Scleropogon neglectus
Scleropogon neglectus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) in the genus Scleropogon. The species was described by Bromley in 1931, originally placed in the genus Stenopogon. Robber flies in this genus are characterized by their distinctive elongated, beak-like proboscis used for capturing and subduing prey. The genus Scleropogon is notable among Asilidae for its specialized morphology and predatory habits.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera
Scleropogon picticornis
Scleropogon picticornis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, a group of predatory true flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The species was described by Hermann Loew in 1866. Like other Asilidae, it possesses a stout body, strong legs with spines for capturing prey, and a distinctive concave facial profile between the eyes. The specific epithet 'picticornis' refers to the painted or marked antennae characteristic of this species.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Brachycera
Scleropogon subulatus
Scleropogon subulatus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Wiedemann in 1828. It belongs to the genus Scleropogon, a group of predatory flies known for their distinctive elongated mouthparts and ambush hunting behavior. The species is part of the diverse Asilidae family, which contains approximately 7,000 described species worldwide. Available observation records indicate this species has been documented in multiple locations, though detailed ecological studies remain limited.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Brachycera
Scleropogon texanus
Scleropogon texanus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) originally described by Bromley in 1931. The species has been reclassified under the genus Stenopogon in some taxonomic treatments, though it remains listed under Scleropogon in other sources. Robber flies in this group are predatory insects known for their active hunting behavior. Specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented in available literature.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera North-America
Sintoria
Sintoria is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by Hull in 1962. The genus contains approximately six described species, all described between 1962 and 1972. Species within this genus are distributed in the Americas, with records from western North America and Central America.
robber-flies predatory-flies Diptera Asilidae
Sintoria cyanea
Sintoria cyanea is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1972. As a member of the diverse robber fly family, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior and stout, powerful build. The genus Sintoria is part of the Asilidae, one of the largest families within Diptera with over 7,000 described species worldwide.
Asilidae Diptera robber-fly predatory-fly Wilcox-1972
Sintoria emeralda
Sintoria emeralda is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Hull in 1962. The specific epithet 'emeralda' suggests a green coloration. As a member of Asilidae, this species is a predatory fly. Information regarding its biology, distribution, and ecology remains extremely limited in published sources.
Asilidae Diptera robber-fly predatory-fly Hull-1962 emerald green Sintoria emeralda Sintoria-emeralda Insecta Arthropoda Animalia Sintoria-emeralda-Hull,-1962 Sintoria-emeralda-(Hull,-1962)Sintoria-emeralda-Hull-1962
Stenopogon
Stenopogon is a large genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, comprising at least 200 described species. Members of this genus belong to the subfamily Stenopogoninae and are distributed across multiple continents. The genus was established by Loew in 1847 and represents a diverse assemblage of predatory flies that share certain morphological and behavioral characteristics.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Stenopogoninae thermoregulation
Stenopogon breviusculoides
Stenopogon breviusculoides is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. The species was described by Bromley in 1937. As a member of the Stenopogoninae, it belongs to a group of generally small to medium-sized robber flies. Robber flies in this subfamily are predatory insects that capture other arthropods in flight.
robber-fly Diptera Asilidae Stenopogoninae predator insect arthropod 1937-description Bromley
Stenopogon breviusculus
Stenopogon breviusculus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. It was described by Loew in 1872. As a member of the Stenopogoninae, it belongs to a group of generally small to medium-sized robber flies. Very few specific observations or biological details have been published for this particular species.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera Stenopogoninae predatory-fly
Stenopogon californiae
Stenopogon californiae is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. First described by Francis Walker in 1849, this species belongs to a genus of relatively small, predatory flies. Robber flies in this subfamily are characterized by their slender bodies and distinctive predatory behavior. Like other asilids, they are aerial predators that capture other insects in flight.
Asilidae Stenopogoninae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera Walker-1849
Stenopogon cazieri
Stenopogon cazieri is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Brookman in 1941. The genus Stenopogon belongs to the subfamily Stenopogoninae, a group characterized by distinctive morphological features and predatory habits. Like other asilids, this species is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects. Very little specific information has been published about this particular species beyond its original description and taxonomic placement.
Asilidae robber-fly Stenopogoninae Diptera Arizona predator
Stenopogon engelhardti
Stenopogon engelhardti is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) in the subfamily Stenopogoninae, described by Bromley in 1937. The genus Stenopogon belongs to a diverse group of predatory flies characterized by their aerial hunting behavior. Very little specific information is documented about this particular species beyond its taxonomic description.
Asilidae Stenopogoninae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera
Stenopogon inquinatus
Stenopogon inquinatus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. It has been studied for its behavioral thermoregulation in response to thermal variation. As a member of the Asilidae, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects, though specific prey records for this species are not documented in the available sources.
robber-fly asilidae stenopogoninae behavioral-thermoregulation thermal-biology predatory-fly
Stenopogon lomae
Stenopogon lomae is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1971. As a member of the subfamily Stenopogoninae, it belongs to a group of generally small to medium-sized predatory flies. The genus Stenopogon is primarily distributed in western North America. Very little specific information is documented about this particular species.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae predatory-fly Diptera
Stenopogon obispae
Stenopogon obispae is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Wilcox in 1971. As a member of the genus Stenopogon, it belongs to a group of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. The species is documented from limited observations, with eight records currently available. Beyond its taxonomic placement, specific biological details remain poorly documented in published literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly Wilcox-1971
Stenopogon tolandi
Stenopogon tolandi is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae, described by Wilcox in 1971. As a member of the genus Stenopogon, it belongs to a group of relatively small robber flies. The genus Stenopogon is part of the diverse Asilidae family, whose members are predatory flies known for their agile flight and piercing-sucking mouthparts used to capture other insects. No specific observations of this species have been documented in the provided sources.
robber-fly Asilidae Stenopogoninae predatory-fly Diptera
Stenopogoninae
robber flies
Stenopogoninae is a subfamily of robber flies (Asilidae) containing more than 70 genera and approximately 740 described species. Members are predatory dipterans found across diverse habitats worldwide. The subfamily includes notably small species such as those in the genus Eudioctria (6–8 mm), as well as larger forms. Many species exhibit characteristic perching behaviors on vegetation and are active predators of other insects.
robber-fly asilidae predator diptera insect-predator aerial-predator perching-behavior
Stichopogon abdominalis
Stichopogon abdominalis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It belongs to the genus Stichopogon, a group of relatively small predatory flies. The species was described by Back in 1909. Information regarding its specific biology, distribution, and ecology remains limited in the available literature.
Asilidae robber-fly predator Diptera Stichopogon Back-1909
Stichopogon argenteus
Silvery Pirate
Stichopogon argenteus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Silvery Pirate. Like other members of its genus, it is a predatory fly associated with sandy or barren habitats. The species was originally described by Thomas Say in 1823 as Dasypogon argenteus before being transferred to Stichopogon.
asilidae robber-fly predatory sandy-habitat
Stichopogon catulus
Stichopogon catulus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It was described by Osten Sacken in 1887. Like other members of the genus Stichopogon, it is a predatory fly. The species has been documented through 106 iNaturalist observations, indicating it is encountered with moderate frequency by naturalists.
robber-fly Asilidae predator Diptera
Stichopogon colei
Stichopogon colei is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Bromley in 1934. As with other members of the genus Stichopogon, it is presumed to be a predatory insect. The species is part of a genus containing ten North American species, many of which are associated with sandy or gravelly habitats.
Asilidae Diptera robber-fly predator insect Stichopogon North-America
Stichopogon fragilis
Stichopogon fragilis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Back in 1909. As a member of the genus Stichopogon, it belongs to a group of small, ground-dwelling predatory flies often associated with sandy or barren habitats. The species is poorly documented in available sources, with minimal published information on its biology and distribution beyond taxonomic records.
Asilidae robber-fly Diptera predator sand-prairie Back-1909
Stichopogoninae
Stichopogoninae is a subfamily of robber flies (family Asilidae) comprising approximately 14 genera and at least 230 described species. Members of this subfamily are predatory flies that capture prey in flight. The subfamily was established by Hardy in 1930.
Asilidae robber-flies predatory-flies Diptera
Taracticus
Rainbow Robbers
Taracticus is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, commonly known as Rainbow Robbers. The genus was established by Loew in 1872 and contains approximately 16 described species. These predatory flies are part of the diverse Asilidae family, which is known for aggressive hunting behavior. The common name 'Rainbow Robbers' suggests distinctive coloration, though specific traits vary among species.
Asilidae robber-fly predatory-fly Diptera
Taracticus octopunctatus
Eight-spotted Rainbow Robber
Taracticus octopunctatus is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It is commonly known as the Eight-spotted Rainbow Robber. The species was first described by Thomas Say in 1823, originally placed in the genus Dioctria as Dioctria 8-punctata. It is found in the eastern United States.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly eastern-US
Taracticus paulus
Taracticus paulus is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Pritchard in 1938. The genus Taracticus comprises small, slender robber flies with distinctive wing venation and reduced mystax. As with other Asilidae, adults are predatory. The species is rarely documented, with only three observations recorded on iNaturalist, indicating either genuine rarity or limited survey effort in its range.
robber-fly Asilidae rarely-observed data-deficient
Tipulogaster glabrata
Shellac-backed Pixie
Tipulogaster glabrata is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Shellac-backed Pixie. The species is characterized by its distinctive appearance and predatory behavior typical of robber flies. It has been recorded in the northeastern United States, including Vermont.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera North-America
Townsendia albomacula
Townsendia albomacula is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Martin in 1966. The genus Townsendia is a small group of asilid flies primarily found in the Neotropical region. As with other robber flies, this species is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific details about its biology remain largely unreported in the scientific literature.
robber-fly asilidae neotropical predatory-fly diptera
Townsendia arenicola
Townsendia arenicola is a species of robber fly (Asilidae) described by Scarbrough in 1995. The specific epithet "arenicola" suggests an association with sandy habitats. As a member of the genus Townsendia, it belongs to a group of small to medium-sized robber flies known for their predatory behavior. The species is documented in multiple taxonomic databases including GBIF, Catalogue of Life, NCBI, and iNaturalist, with 34 observations recorded on the latter platform.
Asilidae robber-fly sand-dwelling Scarbrough-1995
Townsendia nigra
Townsendia nigra is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Back in 1909. As a member of the Diptera order, this predatory fly belongs to a family known for aggressive hunting behavior and strong flight capabilities. The species is part of the genus Townsendia, which contains multiple robber fly species distributed across North America. Specific ecological details about this particular species remain limited in available literature.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly North-American-fauna
Trigonomiminae
Trigonomiminae is a subfamily of robber flies (Asilidae), a diverse group of predatory dipterans. Members are characterized by their predatory lifestyle and are part of one of the largest families of flies. The subfamily is distinguished by specific morphological traits that separate it from other asilid subfamilies. They occur across multiple continents and are active during warmer months.
robber-fly predatory-fly Asilidae Diptera
Triorla
Triorla is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) containing approximately five described species. The genus was segregated from Efferia and is now widely regarded as valid. Triorla interrupta is the only species occurring in North America; other species are distributed from Panama to Argentina. These flies are predatory and share the general characteristics of Asilidae, including a robust body and predatory habits.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly
Triorla interrupta
Triorla interrupta is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It is the only North American species in the genus Triorla, with a second species occurring from Panama to Argentina. The species is considered the most common robber fly in Arkansas and is widely distributed across eastern North America.
robber-fly Asilidae Diptera predatory-fly North-America Arkansas Efferia-group
Wilcoxia forbesi
Wilcoxia forbesi is a species of robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae: Stenopogoninae) described in 2019 from New Mexico. It belongs to the martinorum species group, characterized by specific structural features, seasonality patterns, and natural history traits. As a predatory fly, it has been documented capturing prey from at least four insect orders, with a particular emphasis on true bugs, beetles, wasps, and other flies.
robber-fly asilidae stenopogoninae predator new-species southwestern-United-States martinorum-group
Willistonina bilineata
Willistonina bilineata is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) first described by Williston in 1883. The species was originally placed in the genus Habropogon as H. bilineatus before being transferred to Willistonina. Asilidae are predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior and distinctive morphology.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly Diptera
Wyliea
Bronzewings
Wyliea is a genus of robber flies in the family Asilidae, established by Martin in 1975. The genus is notable for species with vivid aposematic or mimetic coloration, particularly Wyliea mydas, which exhibits wasp-like coloration with a black body and red wings. These large, conspicuous flies are among the most visually striking members of the robber fly family due to their bold color patterns rather than enormous size.
robber-fly Asilidae mimicry aposematic-coloration wasp-mimic
Wyliea mydas
Mydas Bronzewing
Wyliea mydas is a large western robber fly (family Asilidae) noted for its striking wasp-mimetic coloration. The species exhibits a wholly black abdomen and vivid red wings, distinguishing it from similar mimetic flies. It has been documented from western North America, with its range extending into Mexico. The species is considered among the most visually impressive robber flies due to its bold aposematic coloration, presumably modeled after spider wasps in the genera Pepsis and Hemipepsis.
robber-fly mimicry western-North-America aposematic-coloration Asilidae
Zabrops
Zabrops is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) containing eight described species. The genus was established by Hull in 1958. Species within this genus are distributed in North America, with most described by Fisher in 1977. Like other robber flies, members of this genus are predatory as adults.
Asilidae robber-flies predatory-flies North-American-fauna Diptera Asilomorpha
Zabrops flavipilis
Zabrops flavipilis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, first described by Jones in 1907. The species is characterized by yellowish pile (setae), as indicated by its specific epithet "flavipilis" (Latin: flavus = yellow, pilus = hair). Very few observations exist—only 9 records on iNaturalist—suggesting it is either rare, locally distributed, or underreported. Like other Asilidae, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects.
robber-fly asilidae rare underreported
Zabrops tagax
Zabrops tagax is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Samuel Wendell Williston in 1883. The genus Zabrops is a small group within the diverse Asilidae family, which comprises predatory flies known for their aerial hunting behavior. This species is known from very few records, with limited documentation of its biology and ecology. Robber flies in this genus are generally associated with arid and semi-arid regions of western North America.
robber-fly Asilidae predatory-fly rare-species data-deficient
Zabrops wilcoxi
Zabrops wilcoxi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Fisher in 1977. The genus Zabrops is a small group within the diverse robber fly family, which are predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior. This species is documented from 18 iNaturalist observations, indicating it is encountered in the field but remains poorly known in terms of detailed biology.
robber-fly predatory-fly Asilidae Diptera North-America