Forest-flies
Guides
Asteiidae
Fine Flies
Asteiidae is a small family of acalyptrate flies comprising approximately 130 species in 10 genera worldwide. Adults are minute to small (1–3 mm), delicate flies with thin bodies and relatively long, transparent wings. The family is rarely collected, likely due to their small size and inconspicuous habits. Most species are found in forested habitats, with adults often observed on flowers, low vegetation, and fungi.
Aulacigastridae
Sap Flies
Aulacigastridae is a small family of true flies (Diptera) commonly known as sap flies. The family was redefined in 1984 when Stenomicridae was separated from it. Members are found globally across all ecoregions. Both larvae and adults have specialized feeding habits associated with tree sap and fermenting substances.
Clusiodes
Clusiodes is a genus of flies in the family Clusiidae, containing at least 60–70 described species. Members of this genus are small to medium-sized flies associated with forest habitats. The genus was established by Coquillett in 1904.
Clusiodes ater
Clusiodes ater is a species of fly in the family Clusiidae, a group commonly known as druid flies or clusiid flies. The species was described by Melander and Argo in 1924. Clusiidae are small to medium-sized flies typically associated with forest habitats, where larvae develop in decaying wood and adults are often found on tree trunks and foliage.
Rhagionidae
Snipe Flies
Rhagionidae, or snipe flies, is a small family of medium-sized to large flies within the infraorder Tabanomorpha. Members are characterized by slender bodies, stilt-like legs, and often prominent piercing mouthparts. Many species are hematophagous as adults, while others are predatory on other insects. The family name derives from the resemblance of their proboscis to a snipe's beak. Larvae are primarily predatory and mostly terrestrial, though some are aquatic. The genus Rhagio includes species commonly called "down-looker" flies due to their habit of perching head-downward on tree trunks.