Predatory-fly
Guides
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ommatius tibialis
Northeastern Plumetop
Ommatius tibialis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Northeastern Plumetop. The species was described by Thomas Say in 1823. As a member of the Asilidae, it is a predatory fly with venomous mouthparts used to subdue prey. The genus Ommatius is one of the largest genera within the family, with species distributed across multiple continents.
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.
Opomydas townsendi
Opomydas townsendi is a species of mydas fly (family Mydidae), a group of large, predatory flies known for their elongated bodies and distinctive wing venation. The species was originally described as Ectyphus townsendi by Williston in 1898 and later transferred to the genus Opomydas. It is endemic to New Mexico, where it inhabits arid and semi-arid environments. Like other mydas flies, adults are likely predatory or nectar-feeding, though specific behavioral details remain poorly documented.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ozodiceromyia nanella
Ozodiceromyia nanella is a species of stiletto fly (Diptera: Therevidae) described by Cole in 1960. The genus Ozodiceromyia belongs to the cycloteline Therevinae, a group of therevid flies characterized by distinctive morphological features. The species name "nanella" suggests small size, consistent with the generally diminutive nature of many Ozodiceromyia species. As a member of the Therevidae family, this species is part of a diverse group of predatory flies whose larvae typically inhabit soil or decaying organic matter.
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.
Pelastoneurus vagans
Pelastoneurus vagans is a species of long-legged fly (family Dolichopodidae) first described by Loew in 1861. As a member of the subfamily Dolichopodinae, it shares the characteristic elongated legs and slender body typical of this diverse family of predatory flies. The species is documented in entomological collections and databases, with 173 observations recorded on iNaturalist.
Platypalpus discifer
hybotid dance fly
Platypalpus discifer is a species of hybotid dance fly first described by Loew in 1863. As a member of the family Hybotidae, it belongs to a group of small predatory flies formerly classified within Empididae. The genus Platypalpus is characterized by distinctive morphological features including a small spherical head relative to body size. Like other hybotids, this species is predatory as an adult and is associated with specific microhabitats for feeding.
Platypalpus flammifer
dance fly
Platypalpus flammifer is a species of hybotid dance fly described by Melander in 1924. Like other members of the family Hybotidae, it is a small predatory fly. The genus Platypalpus is part of the subfamily Tachydromiinae within Hybotidae. Very few specific observations of this species have been documented.
Platypalpus holosericus
Platypalpus holosericus is a small predatory fly in the family Hybotidae, commonly known as hybotid dance flies. The species was described by Melander in 1924. Like other members of the genus Platypalpus, it likely occupies specific feeding niches and exhibits the characteristic predatory behavior of the family. Adults are known to seize prey with modified front legs and use extraoral digestion.
Platypalpus mesogrammus
hybotid dance fly
Platypalpus mesogrammus is a small predatory fly in the family Hybotidae, commonly known as hybotid dance flies. Like other members of its genus, it is characterized by a diminutive spherical head and enlarged compound eyes that dominate the visual profile. The species was described by Loew in 1863 and is one of many poorly studied dance flies with limited documented natural history.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
Proctacanthus micans
Proctacanthus micans is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It belongs to a genus of large, predatory flies characterized by prominent facial beards and spiny abdomens. The genus name translates to 'spiny butt' in reference to this abdominal armature. Like other Proctacanthus species, it is presumed to be an active predator of other insects and to have a life cycle involving soil-dwelling larvae.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Promachus atrox
robber fly
Promachus atrox is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1940. Like other members of the genus Promachus, it belongs to the group commonly known as "giant robber flies." The species is part of a diverse genus of predatory flies known for their aggressive hunting behavior and large size relative to other asilids. Specific details about its biology and distribution remain limited in published sources.
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.
Promachus painteri
Promachus painteri is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1934. It belongs to the genus Promachus, commonly known as "giant robber flies," which are conspicuous aerial predators. The species is part of the diverse Asilidae family, whose members are known for their predatory behavior on other insects. Specific details about P. painteri's biology and distribution remain limited in published sources.
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.
Psilocurus birdi
Psilocurus birdi is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Curran in 1931. As a member of this predatory fly family, it likely exhibits the characteristic hunting behavior of asilids, though specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented. The genus Psilocurus contains relatively small, slender robber flies compared to some of their more robust relatives.
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.
Rachicerus fulvicollis
Rachicerus fulvicollis is a species of fly in the family Xylophagidae, a small group of brachyceran flies commonly known as awl-flies. The species is found in the United States. Members of Xylophagidae are generally associated with wooded habitats and are predatory as larvae.
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.