* Fighting other males: The males use their mandibles to fight for territory and access to females. They lock their mandibles together and push and shove each other, trying to overpower their opponent.
* Courtship: The size and shape of the mandibles play a role in attracting females. Larger, more impressive mandibles are considered more attractive to females.
It's important to note that these mandibles are not used for feeding. Stag flies feed on nectar and pollen.
So, while they resemble antlers, the male stag fly's "antlers" are actually modified jaws used for fighting and attracting mates.