Nematocera facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Nematocera |
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| Aedes aegypti, a disease-carrying mosquito | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Diptera |
| Suborder: | Nematocera Latreille, 1825 |
| Infraorders | |
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The Nematocera are a big group of flies. This group includes well-known insects like mosquitoes and midges. These flies often have long, thin bodies. They also have antennae that look like they are made of many small parts.
Most Nematocera start their lives in water. Their young, called larvae, usually live in watery places. But there are many types that do not follow this rule. Some larvae live in damp soil or other land habitats.
What are Nematocera?
Nematocera is a scientific name for a large group of flies. It is a suborder, which is a way to group living things. Think of it like a big family of insects. This group is part of the larger order of flies.
Common Examples
You might already know some members of the Nematocera family.
- Mosquitoes (Culicidae) are famous for biting. Some can spread diseases.
- Crane flies (Tipulidae) look like giant mosquitoes. But they do not bite people.
- Black flies (Simuliidae) are small, dark flies. Their bites can be annoying.
Many other types of Nematocera are simply called gnats. Others are known as midges. These are often small flying insects.
Where They Live
Many Nematocera species start their lives in water. Their larvae live in ponds, streams, or even puddles. But as they grow, some types move to land. They might live in damp soil or other land-based habitats. This shows how adaptable these insects can be.
How They Find Partners
Many male Nematocera gather together. They form large groups called swarms. This helps them find female partners. Sometimes, there is a lot of competition among the males. They all want to find a mate. This behavior is a key part of their reproduction.
See also
