Asilidae adults are described as which of the following?

Asilidae adults are described as which of the following?

• A. They are aquatic herbivores
• B. They mimic bees
• C. Adults are aerial predators, excellent fliers
• D. They feed only at night

Answer: (C)

Robber flies (Asilidae) are classic aerial predators. Adults hunt from the air, capturing other insects in flight with remarkable speed and maneuverability. Their large, sharp eyes give excellent vision, their strong thorax provides powerful wingbeats, and their long legs help seize prey midair. They often immobilize prey with rapid, piercing bites and inject saliva that pre-digests tissues, making feeding straightforward. This combination of active daytime predation and superior flight is what defines Asilidae adults. They are not aquatic herbivores, and while some species may resemble bees or wasps as a defensive trick, mimicry isn’t the defining trait. They are generally diurnal rather than night-feeding.

Robber flies (Asilidae) are classic aerial predators. Adults hunt from the air, capturing other insects in flight with remarkable speed and maneuverability. Their large, sharp eyes give excellent vision, their strong thorax provides powerful wingbeats, and their long legs help seize prey midair. They often immobilize prey with rapid, piercing bites and inject saliva that pre-digests tissues, making feeding straightforward. This combination of active daytime predation and superior flight is what defines Asilidae adults. They are not aquatic herbivores, and while some species may resemble bees or wasps as a defensive trick, mimicry isn’t the defining trait. They are generally diurnal rather than night-feeding.