ORDER DIPTERA. 



Including the Gnats, Midges, Crane Flies, Hawk Flies,. 

 Bee Flies, Breeze Flies, Bot Flies, and their Allies. 



The Diptera, or two-winged flies, are among the most numerous 

 orders of insects, but they have been so Httle studied hitherto that 

 we have but a very imperfect knowledge of them, especially as 

 regards the tropical species. 



Fig I20. — IMidas Giganteus. 



The number recorded in the British Isles is about 3,000, that 

 of the whole world probably exceeds 30,000, and it is certain that 

 this number will be increased immensely as time goes on. 



The Diptera may be defined as insects with a sucking mouth 

 {Hai(stcllate), and with only two wings, which are membranous. 



