Umbelligerus peruviensis
Image Copyright Rinske Hackman
Last Observed: February 2016, Koh Chang
Observed By: Rinske Hackman
The unique three pronged “antlers” that sprout from the head of this bizarre insect are almost like a helicopter’s rotor blades. They don’t turn of course. This fly gets around using its wings and the internet is unusually circumspect regarding what on earth the blades are for.
So I’m going to guess that they offer protection from predators by camouflage. Or maybe they are used in display to win potential mates? Or perhaps they are used to fight off other Umbelligerus peruviensis? Maybe the fly is wearing them for a bet? If you know please pass on a scientific answer.
Umbelligeris peruviensis National Geographic
Image Copyright Rinske Hackman
Image Copyright Rinske Hackman
Image Copyright Rinske Hackman
