Main Families
This superfamily includes the following families:
- Tipulidae – True crane flies, large with narrow, veined wings, often seen in spring.
- Limoniidae – Smaller crane flies, often associated with wetlands or forested areas.
- Pediciidae – A related family, generally found in shaded areas and along streams.
- Cylindrotomidae – Crane flies whose larvae are often mycophagous or moss-dwelling.
Habitat
Tipuloidea are commonly found in:
- Moist soils and marshy meadows
- Cool forests or shaded areas
- Stream banks and floodplains
- Gardens, lawns, and meadows
Biology
- Adults: usually short-lived, feeding little or not at all—sometimes on nectar.
- Larvae:
- Saprophagous or detritivorous (decaying plant material)
- Aquatic or in moist terrestrial environments
- Play an important role in organic matter recycling
Despite their impressive appearance, crane flies are harmless to humans and play a vital ecological role.
A representative illustration of a typical crane fly will be added soon.