Limoniidae
Limoniid Crane Flies
Limoniidae, previously a subfamily of Tipulidae (Limoniinae), are now considered their own family. Both Limoniidae and Tipulidae are part of the larger group of crane flies, Tipulomorpha. Often these are relatively large, grey or white, soft-bodied, legless larvae. The head is inconspicuous, mostly retracted into the thorax and almost completely hidden from view. They are often sold in bait shops, or used as models for tied flies, especially for bass fishing. Usually, larvae are found burrowing in soft sediment of streams, often near algae or woody debris; but some larvae are terrestrial. They vary in feeding strategy, some are predators while others are shredding detritivores and herbivores. Most species have only 1 generation per year. Pupa usually are found in marginal habitats. Adults resemble giant mosquitoes, with long, delicate legs; however, they do not bite.