Classification and distribution of Tabanidae (Diptera)

Abstract

The old primary classification of the Tabanidae, based on the presence or absence of hind tibia1 spurs, has been replaced by one based primarily on the genitalia of both sexes, but supported by a significant, though not complete, correlation with external characters. The early stages, so far as known, support the new arrangement. The following subfamilies and tribes are recognized: Pangoniinae Scepsidinae Chrysopinae Tabaninue Pangoniini Bouvieromyiini Diachlorini Scionini Chrysopini Haematopotini Philolichini Rhinomyzini Tabanini Distribution of the family is world-wide, but can be divided into three main sections. More primitive groups are predominantly southern, occurring in some or all of South America, southern Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, with occasional northern extensions, and, in one case (Pangoniini), an extensive Holarctic arc. More specialized groups show two patterns. Southern regional radiations have occurred in South America and Africa, with extensions respectively into the Nearctic and Oriental-Australasian regions. Northern radiation of Chrysopini,Haematopotini, and Tabanini has resulted in a radial distribution like that of the eutherian mammals.