Posted by monsun on 26-01-2015 22:31
#1
Hi!
I found a 4 mm sized pupa on a tree trunk beside a lake in the south of Sweden. I took it home and it hatched five days later. The fly is about 5,5 mm. Is it a Tachinidae and is it possible to get further? Thanks in advance. Monika
Posted by Zeegers on 27-01-2015 10:18
#2
Dear Monsun
This is most interesting indeed ! Normally, such records concern Triarthria setipennis, a very common species easily reared from Dermaptera. But this one is off in colouration and the bristles on parafacial are lacking as well. Therefore, it is the female of Trichactia [sic] pictiventris.
A pretty rare species with host still unknown. This records suggests (though does not prove) that the host of Trichactia could be similar to that of Triarthria: Dermaptera or possibly another barkdwelling insect. Would be very interesting if you could pursue this matter next year.
[so, yes, it is a Tachinid, sorry, should have started there].
Theo
Posted by monsun on 01-02-2015 00:03
#3
Thank you so much for your answer! I will be looking for a lot of spiders in this area this year so I will certainly keep an eye out for this fly and its host.
Regards Monika
Posted by monsun on 05-02-2015 14:03
#5
I meant that my hobby is mostly spiders and I will look for spiders in this area. While I do this I will keep an eye out for this fly and earwigs (and other possible hosts for the fly) on trees.
:)