Crocheted-pseudopods
Guides
Deuterophlebiidae
Mountain Midges
Deuterophlebiidae is a monotypic family of Diptera containing the single genus Deuterophlebia, considered the most plesiomorphic extant dipteran family based on morphological and molecular evidence. Commonly known as mountain midges, these insects inhabit cold, fast-flowing streams across the Holarctic region. Adults possess striking morphology including extremely long antennae in males, broad fan-shaped wings, and highly reduced mouthparts. Larvae are specialized for life in torrential waters with reversible crocheted pseudopods for attachment to smooth stones. The family exhibits a complex life cycle with extended larval and pupal periods and extremely brief adult longevity lasting only a few hours.