Diptera.info :: Literature :: What should I use?
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 Beginner identification resources (African Brachycera - family level)
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| Sophie |
Posted on 07-08-2025 13:10
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Member Location: Posts: 1 Joined: 06.08.25 |
Hello all, I will be collecting flies in Zambia as part of my PhD research. I will need to group them to the family level. My main focus is on the families Muscidae, Calliphoridae, Sarcophagidae, and Fanniidae. I have no expertise in fly identification and would really appreciate recommendations for beginner-friendly resources (literature, books, online tools…) that could help me get started. I recently came across the "Manual of Afrotropical Diptera", though it seems quite technical and extensive for a beginner. Thanks in advance for any help! All the best, Sophie |
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| Tony Irwin |
Posted on 07-08-2025 14:38
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 Member Location: Norwich, England Posts: 7300 Joined: 19.11.04 |
The key in volume 1 of the Manual of Afrotropical Diptera will enable you to identify your samples to family. While the keys are technical, there's no easy way round that if you require accuracy (which I assume you do for your studies). As with any study, once you get to know the terminology, things are much easier. If you have the opportunity to visit a museum with good Afrotropical collections, that can be a way to familiarize yourself with many of the species.
Tony ---------- Tony Irwin |
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