Platystomatidae – Signal-winged Flies

Platystomatidae are a family of flies belonging to the Tephritoidea superfamily, also known as “signal-winged flies.” Their wings often display dark or colorful markings, which may serve in communication or camouflage. These flies frequent humid areas, forest edges, or flower-rich clearings. Adults feed on sugary liquids or fruit juices, while the larvae generally live in decaying plant matter. Still relatively unknown to the general public, they are of interest due to their courtship behaviors and often spectacular appearance.