About Flat-footed Scuttle Fly
A minute brown phorid fly with broad flattened tarsi and reduced wing venation. It is associated with ant nests where it scavenges on refuse and dead ants.
Did You Know?
It lives inside ant colonies as a tolerated guest, feeding on the waste materials that ants discard in their refuse chambers.
How to Identify Flat-footed Scuttle Fly
Flat-footed Scuttle Fly (Metopina oligoneura) belongs to the order Diptera, family Phoridae. Adults typically measure 1-2 mm.
Flat-footed Scuttle Fly Habitat
Flat-footed Scuttle Fly is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Flat-footed Scuttle Fly Diet and Feeding
Flat-footed Scuttle Fly is a detritivore that feeds on decaying organic matter and dead plant material. By breaking down dead matter, detritivores play a crucial role in nutrient recycling and soil formation.
Where Is Flat-footed Scuttle Fly Found?
Flat-footed Scuttle Fly can be found in Europe, Asia, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Flat-footed Scuttle Fly can be found
Is Flat-footed Scuttle Fly Dangerous?
Flat-footed Scuttle Fly is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Flat-footed Scuttle Fly Role in Nature
Flat-footed Scuttle Fly plays a vital role in decomposition and nutrient recycling. By breaking down dead organic matter, it helps return nutrients to the soil, supporting plant growth and maintaining ecosystem health.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Flat-footed Scuttle Fly
What does Flat-footed Scuttle Fly look like?
The Flat-footed Scuttle Fly typically measures 1-2 mm.
Where is Flat-footed Scuttle Fly found?
The Flat-footed Scuttle Fly is found in Europe, Asia and typically inhabits woodlands environments.
What does Flat-footed Scuttle Fly eat?
The Flat-footed Scuttle Fly feeds on decaying organic matter and dead plant material.
Is Flat-footed Scuttle Fly dangerous to humans?
The Flat-footed Scuttle Fly is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Flat-footed Scuttle Fly?
It lives inside ant colonies as a tolerated guest, feeding on the waste materials that ants discard in their refuse chambers.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Flat-footed Scuttle Fly (Metopina oligoneura). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/flat-footed-scuttle-fly
MLA:
"Flat-footed Scuttle Fly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/flat-footed-scuttle-fly.