Scatopsoidea is a superfamily of true flies that comprises the families Canthyloscelidae, Scatopsidae, and Valeseguyidae.[1][2] There are about 400 known species worldwide but more may yet to be discovered, especially in the tropics.[2]
Scatopsoidea | |
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Minute black scavenger flies on oxeye daisy. | |
Scientific classification | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Arthropoda |
Class: | Insecta |
Order: | Diptera |
Suborder: | Nematocera |
Infraorder: | Bibionomorpha |
Superfamily: | Scatopsoidea |
Families | |
In Scatopsoidea, the posterior margin of the katepisternum is displaced to a more posterior disposition, causing the pleural suture to be folded. The superfamily also has a well-developed sperm pump and associated apodemes.[1]
Based on morphological features, Scatopsidae and Canthyloscelidae are sister groups to each other, and Valeseguyidae is the sister group to them.[1]
An analysis of nuclear and mitochondrial gene markers supported the monophyly of Scatopsoidea. It also found that this superfamily is the sister group to Bibionomorpha.[3]