Overview
The Cymidae were considered until recently to be a subfamily of the Lygaeidae. We have followed the revision by Henry (1997) and recognised them at family rank.
The cymids are primarily granivorous (seed feeders), utilising hosts such as grasses (Poaceae) and other monocots belonging to the plant families Cyperaceae, Juncaceae and Restionaceae. There is evidence that some Cymidae are not host specific, with some species having been collected on a wide range of plant species where some resemble the seeds that they feed on.
Distribution
The family is found throughout Australia and is represented by 4 genera and 10 species.