Platypezidae

Platypezidae is a family of flies commonly known as flat-footed flies or balloon flies. They belong to the order Diptera and are characterized by their distinctive flat feet, which are used for walking and perching. Adult Platypezidae typically have a stout body and broad wings, often with a yellowish or brownish coloration. They are found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands.

The larvae of Platypezidae are parasitic and were once used as indicators of beetle presence. Adult flies emerge from the ground or from nearby vegetation, often with a short-lived balloon-like behavior. During this phase, they oscillate their position in the air before settling on a surface. This unique behavior is thought to be related to attracting mates or avoiding predators.

Platypezidae are found in various parts of the world, with the majority of species concentrated in the Northern Hemisphere. Some of the most common species found in North America include Platypezina flaviventris and Atelestomorpha cristata. In Europe, the Platypezidae family is represented by species such as australa brachylinguis and trigonalaea subhemiptera.

Members of the Platypezidae family are often studied in the context of their role in parasitizing beetles. The larvae of these flies prey on beetle larvae, contributing to the population control of these insects. Further research has shown that Platypezidae can also be useful indicators of environmental health due to their sensitivity to changes in habitats and ecosystems.