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Diptera.info :: Identification queries :: Diptera (eggs, larvae, pupae)
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Syrphidae larvae?
Ness
#1 Print Post
Posted on 27-01-2016 15:42
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Hi,

I found a bunch of larvae like this one on cereal stems in Catalonia (north-eastern Spain) in Spring (May-June) and I kept them in ethanol 70º.

I thought it was a Syrphidae, but the key I am using (from: “AN INTRODUCTION TO THE IMMATURE STAGES OF BRITISH FLIES: DIPTERA LARV AE, WITH NOTES ON EGGS, PUPARIA AND PUPAE”, by KGV Smith) says:


“- Posterior spiracles close together on a fused process of varying length, from short to an elongate retractile tube (figs 252-281). -> Syrphidae (p. 80)

- Posterior spiracles not on a fused process and, if appearing fused, then lacking spicules, tubercles or dense pubescence . 11”

And as I can’t see spicules, tubercles or pubescense, I am not so sure. Posterior spiracles are fused but on a very short process. They are all about 0.7 - 1 cm long.

I know these aren't great pictures but could someone confirm if this is or isn’t a Syrphidae?

Thanks!
Ness attached the following image:


[90.33Kb]
Edited by Ness on 27-01-2016 16:14
 
Ness
#2 Print Post
Posted on 27-01-2016 16:16
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general view :
Ness attached the following image:


[39.86Kb]
 
Ectemnius
#3 Print Post
Posted on 27-01-2016 19:27
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Location: The Netherlands
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Hi Ness,

Certainly looks like a Syrphidae to me. If you wanna find out you might try using the keys in: An introduction to the imaatures stages of British Flies
found here: http://www.royensoc.co.uk/content/out-print-handbooks

Greetings,

Ectemnius
 
Ness
#4 Print Post
Posted on 28-01-2016 10:34
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Thank you! Smile That's the key I am using, but thanks anyway.
Edited by Ness on 28-01-2016 10:35
 
atylotus
#5 Print Post
Posted on 28-01-2016 12:13
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Location: Amsterdam, NL
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Syrphidae is o.k. Try Rotheray's key for genuslevel: http://www.dipter...Larvae.pdf
 
Ness
#6 Print Post
Posted on 28-01-2016 12:20
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This key seems really useful. Thank you! I'll try it Smile
 
Ectemnius
#7 Print Post
Posted on 28-01-2016 12:25
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Location: The Netherlands
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Dohhhh..... Reading the description accurately is what I didn't do! Grin
 
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