Which statement correctly describes crane flies (Tipulidae)?

Which statement correctly describes crane flies (Tipulidae)?

• A. They are aquatic as adults
• B. 70-90 mm; black
• C. 1-5 mm; transparent
• D. 10-50 mm in length; white, yellowish or brown

Answer: (D)

Crane flies are moderate-sized, slender insects with long legs. The best description reflects that adults are typically about 10–50 mm in body length and come in pale to brownish shades such as white, yellowish, or brown. That size range and color variation fit what is commonly seen in Tipulidae. The idea that they are aquatic as adults isn’t correct, since adults live on vegetation or in the air and do not inhabit water, even though their larvae may be aquatic in some species. The other stated sizes and colors don’t match the usual crane fly appearance.

Crane flies are moderate-sized, slender insects with long legs. The best description reflects that adults are typically about 10–50 mm in body length and come in pale to brownish shades such as white, yellowish, or brown. That size range and color variation fit what is commonly seen in Tipulidae. The idea that they are aquatic as adults isn’t correct, since adults live on vegetation or in the air and do not inhabit water, even though their larvae may be aquatic in some species. The other stated sizes and colors don’t match the usual crane fly appearance.