Two-winged fly
- Pronunciation
- /too-winged fly/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Two-winged fly
- Plural
- Two-winged flies
Definition
A member of the order Diptera, characterized by having only one pair of functional wings and a pair of halteres, which are modified hindwings used for balance.
Etymology
From Greek 'di-', meaning 'two', and 'ptera', meaning 'wings'.
Example
The house fly, a common household pest, is a type of two-winged fly in the order Diptera.
Synonyms
- Dipteran
- True fly
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Two-winged flies are distinguished from other insects by their single pair of functional wings. The halteres are crucial for their agile flight capabilities.