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stalk-eyed fly
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stalk-eyed fly
stalk-eyed fly

stalk-eyed fly

insect
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Also known as: Diopsidae
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stalk-eyed fly, (family Diopsidae), any member of a family of unusual-looking flies (order Diptera) that have their eyes mounted on long stalks near the antennae. This arrangement, although advantageous to vision, is an aerodynamic handicap.

The adults of the one species in North America (Sphyracephala brevicornis) are sometimes found on skunk cabbage. In all species the larvae live and feed on wet organic matter in marsh or bog habitats. All other species are tropical.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.