Sciarids
Sciarids are a family of flies in the order Diptera, commonly known as sciarid flies. They are characterized by their small size, typically ranging from 1 to 5 millimeters in length, and their slender bodies. Sciarids are often found in moist environments such as decaying plant material, compost, and other organic matter. They are known for their role in decomposition processes, as many species feed on decaying organic material.
The family Sciaridae includes over 1,500 described species, with the majority belonging to the genus Sciara.
Sciarids have a unique life cycle, with some species undergoing complete metamorphosis, while others exhibit parthenogenesis,
The taxonomy of sciarids is complex, with ongoing research aimed at clarifying relationships within the family.