Cerioidini have antennae with a terminal style and have somewhat elongate and basally constricted abdomens, only slightly in Ceriana, but pronounced in most Sphiximorpha; and Polybiomyia, and extremely in Monoceromyia.

[3] This family is distinguished by anatomy and coloration that has evolved to be wasp mimics.

The effect is the appearance of a dark forewing and a clear hind wing, as in wasps.

When captured, the fly also has some behavioural mimicry, such as a stinging motion of the abdomen.

The overall coloration is very wasp-like, often black with yellow rings on the abdomen and strong markings on the thorax and face.