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Panorpidae is a family of scorpionflies, which is a group of insects belonging to the order Mecoptera. They are characterized by having four membranous wings and threadlike antennae. The family Panorpidae is the largest family within the order Mecoptera, encompassing more than 480 species, which accounts for approximately 70% of all species in the order. These scorpionflies range in size between 9 to 25 mm.

The scorpionflies of the family Panorpidae have elongated faces that terminate with mouthparts used for feeding on dead and dying insects, nectar, and rotting fruit. In their larval form, they scavenge by consuming dead insects found on the ground.

The family Panorpidae includes several genera. Some notable genera within Panorpidae include:

Aulops with two species
Cerapanorpa with 22 species
Dicerapanorpa with eight species
Furcatopanorpa with one species
Leptopanorpa with 12 species
Neopanorpa with approximately 170 species
Panorpa with approximately 260 species
Sinopanorpa with three species
There are also extinct genera within Panorpidae, such as Baltipanorpa, which is known from Baltic amber deposits and dates back to the Eocene period.

The fossil record of Panorpidae suggests that the family has existed since the Eocene period, although an older species called Jurassipanorpa was previously suggested, but later found to be incorrectly attributed to the family.

Panorpidae is widely distributed, with species found in North America, Mexico, Eurasia, and other parts of the world.

In terms of their habitat, Panorpidae scorpionflies can be found in low shrubs, ground cover, and densely vegetated woodlands, often near water sources or wet seeps. They can also inhabit grasslands, cultivated fields, and forest margins. Adults are typically observed resting on leaves within a meter from the ground.

The diet of Panorpidae scorpionflies varies depending on their life stage. Adult scorpionflies mostly feed on dead or dying insects, occasionally feeding on fruit or nectar. The larvae, on the other hand, are scavengers and primarily feed on soft-bodied dead insects.

Mating behavior in Panorpidae involves the male offering some form of food, such as a dead insect or a column of brown salivary secretion that becomes gelatinous when dried. The male also emits a pheromone to attract the female. During mating, the male grasps the end of the female's abdomen and clamps her forewing. Mating typically occurs while the female feeds.

In summary, Panorpidae is a diverse family of scorpionflies within the order Mecoptera. They are characterized by their membranous wings, threadlike antennae, and elongated faces. With numerous species and various genera, these insects play important roles as scavengers and feeders in ecosystems.