Lonchopteridae

Lonchopteridae is a small family of true flies, commonly known as spear-winged flies. These insects are characterized by their unusually long, narrow wings, which give them their common name. The wings are often held outstretched in flight, and their shape is a distinctive feature of the family. Lonchopterids are small flies, typically only a few millimeters in length, and are often a dark brown or black color.

The family is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and agricultural areas, primarily in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Their larvae are saprophagous, meaning they feed on decaying organic matter, and are often found in moist soil, leaf litter, or dung. Adult lonchopterids are thought to feed on nectar or other liquids, though their feeding habits are not as well-studied as those of their larvae.

Lonchopteridae contains a single genus, Lonchoptera, with about a dozen described species. While they are not considered economically significant pests, they are part of the broader insect biodiversity and play a role in decomposition processes. Their unique wing morphology has made them a subject of interest in entomological studies of insect flight and evolution.