How many pairs of wings do flies and mosquitoes have?

Flies and mosquitoes both belong to the order Diptera, which is characterized by having a single pair of functional wings, amounting to two wings in total. The second pair of wings that some other insects have is typically modified into small structures known as halteres, which help with balance and stability during flight. This unique adaptation is essential for their aerial maneuverability. Understanding this anatomical feature helps distinguish flies and mosquitoes from other insects that possess multiple pairs of wings. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the distinctive wing morphology of these insects within their classification.