Callipappus sp. 1Common name: Bird of paradise fly

Meaning of name: Unknown.

Distribution: Unknown.

Description: This bug was approximately 10 millimetres long (excluding tail filaments).

Remarks: Despite its common name, this insect is a bug, not a fly. It is a type of scale insect. The insects pictured here are males.

The female lacks wings and tail filaments and can be up to 40 millimetres long.

References: http://www.brisbaneinsects.com/brisbane_softbugs/SilverPhoenix.htm

http://australianmuseum.net.au/giant-female-scale-insects-and-bird-of-paradise-flies

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