Diagnosis. Very small (1.0-2.5 mm), black flies. Head with large frontal triangle; anterior two orbital setae inclinate, posterior orbital setae lateroclinate; several pairs of strong vibrissae. Thorax with several distinct dorsocentral setae; pleura with one or more setae on anepisternum and katepisternum. Wing with two costal breaks; cross vein dm-cu present (Meoneura) or absent (Carnus); anal vein absent. Legs without preapical dorsal setae on tibiae.
Biology. Larvae of Meoneura have been reared from bird's nests, animal droppings, dead organic material and occasionally from carrion. Adults are often found near these substrates but also have been found on fungi or umbellifers. Larvae and adults of Carnus usually are found in bird's nests, especially those in (tree) holes or build on branches of trees and shrubs. The larvae feed on dead organic matter in the nests. Adults may loose their wings if the find a suitable nest and live of organic debris but may feed on blood of the nestlings as well.
General references. Papp (1978 [keys in Hungarian], 1984e [catalogue], 1998b [general, key to genera]), Sabrosky (1987c [general, key to genera]).
References to the local fauna. Brake (1996, 2011b), De Meijere (1946a), Meuffels (1970).
How to quote this page: Beuk, P.L.Th., 2001. Family Carnidae. In: Beuk, P.L.Th. (Ed.): Checklist of the Diptera of the Netherlands, https://diptera-info.nl/news.php?fam=Carnidae (date accessed: 22/12/2024).
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