How do antennae and wing veins help scientists classify true flies?

In the study of Diptera, the structure of antennae and the pattern of wing venation are the primary criteria used by scientists to divide the order into suborders.1

• Antennae: The specific structure of the antennae serves as a key taxonomic feature for distinguishing between different groups of flies.1
• Wing Venation: The wings of true flies possess a defined pattern of veins, with each vein having a specific name and location that holds taxonomic value. Scientists observe these patterns to differentiate between species: primitive flies typically exhibit more complex venation, whereas advanced flies display reduced and simplified patterns. Unlike many other insects often misidentified as flies—such as dragonflies or mayflies—most true flies lack a complex network of small veins, known as reticulation.2

By analyzing these anatomical details, researchers can accurately classify specimens within the diverse order of true flies.1