Flies differ from other insects because they have?

Flies are classified as members of the order Diptera, which is distinguished by having only two wings, unlike most other insects that typically possess four wings. The structure of flies includes a pair of functional wings used for flying and a second pair of wings that has evolved into small, club-like structures known as halteres. These halteres help to maintain balance during flight but do not function as wings.

This unique adaptation allows flies to maneuver with agility and stability in the air, making them different from other insects that have retained both pairs of wings for flying. Understanding this characteristic is crucial for recognizing the diversity of insect anatomy and the evolutionary adaptations that have occurred within different insect groups.