Diptera (Noun)
Meaning
A large order of insects having a single pair of wings and sucking or piercing mouths; includes true flies and mosquitoes and gnats and crane flies.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The larvae of Diptera are commonly known as maggots and are often found in decaying organic matter.
- The order Diptera is one of the most diverse groups of insects, with over 125,000 described species.
- The Diptera are typically characterized by their paired wings, which are actually modified hind wings that have evolved into small appendages.
- Diptera are important pollinators and decomposers, and some species are significant pests that transmit diseases to humans and animals.
- Entomologists study the Diptera to better understand their role in ecosystems and to develop methods for controlling populations of pest species.