This stalk-eyed fly (Achias rothschildi) belongs to the family
Platystomatidae and is a highly localised species endemic to
Papua New Guinea. The eye-stalks are mainly used for display in
confrontations with other males as they try to establish
territory in order to attract a mate. During conflict between
males The males have long eye-stalks, which vary in size so that
the distance between the eyes ranges from about 20 to 55mm. The
holotype of this species has the widest head of any known fly.
Achias rothchildi is one of a genus containing nearly 100
described species, most of them endemic to New Guinea. Get a
further taxxonomic description ofthis species. Achias rothchildi
is endemic to Papua New Guinea. Find out about the types of
habitat this species is known from. The largest males have the
widest head of any known fly. Learn about the size and growth
patterns of Achias rothchildi. Studies of stalk-eyed flies
suggest that individuals with longer eye-stalks are more
successful in conflicts between males, a