Permotipulid fossils provide an interesting phenotypic connection between
mecopterans and dipterans. They have two pairs of wings, but the hind wings
are considerably reduced. Two genera have been described in this family,
both from the Permian.
Recently, Willman (1989) discussed the placement of Permotipula,
previously placed in the Mecoptera, and dubbed it the "oldest fly".
Krzeminski (1992c) discussed the origins of the lower Diptera and concluded
that Permotipula did not belong to the Diptera.
Ref.: Willman (1989, review of taxa); Krzeminski (1992c, phylogenetic
placement of Permotipula).
PERMOTIPULA Tillyard, 1929: 778. Type species: Permotipula
patricia Tillyard, 1929, by monotypy.
patricia Tillyard, 1929: 779. AU: Australia (Upper Permian) [C].
PERMILA Willman, 1989: 57. Type species: Permotipula borealis
Martynova, 1961, by original designation.
borealis Martynova, 1961: 589 (Permotipula). PA: Russia (Upper
Permian) [C].