Baltic Amber Long-Legged Fly Dolichopodidae


Name: Long-Legged Fly

Order: Diptera, Family Dolichopodidae

Geological Time: Upper Eocene - Lower Oligocene

Size: (25.4mm=1 inch): Amber: 26 mm long, 12 mm across, 1.5 grams. Inclusion

Location: Kaliningrad District, Russia


DolichopodidaeDescription: This amber piece displays a fine member of the Diptera. The term Diptera means "two-winged" and is actually a misnomer. Most members have a second, vestigial pair of wings that are mere knobs which are used as a "gyroscope" to keep the insect level in flight. This inclusion is a member of the Family Dolichopodidae, or long-legged flies, and displays well-faceted eyes which afforded a detailed view of the fly's surroundings.



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