A tiny species, only 1,4 to 1.5 mm long. Entirely flightless and no traces of either wings or halteres. Eyes reduced and ocelli lacking. The head is wide and flat and the antennae are hidden in lateral grooves on the head. The entire habitus is reminiscent of a louse, rather than a fly. It is the only species of the family in Germany. It can be distinguished from other flightless dipterans by its clearly segmented abdomen and its exclusive association with honey bees.