Ethology of Proctacanthus gracilis Bromley, 1928 (Diptera: Asilidae) in Northeastern Florida, U.S.A.

Abstract

Proctacanthus gracilis Bromley, 1928 forages primarily from vegetation, capturing prey in flight, and immobilizing them in flight or on the ground. Identified prey is in eight insect orders (Coleoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera, Neuroptera, Odonata, and Orthoptera), with Othoptera making up 63.0%. Mating occurs in the tail-to-tail position and oviposition is in the ground. This species exhibits a distinct daily rhythm of activity for feeding and mating. Grooming behavior resembles that described for other species of robber flies. Morphology, habitats and distribution in Florida, resting behavior, and predators and parasites also are discussed.