Thread subject: Diptera.info :: sand fly

Posted by tristanba on 27-08-2008 17:43
#1

Hi,

I'm sure this is a very common species, but I cannot even place it to family. Seen recently on a sandy beach with extensive dune system in north Wales, UK.

All help much appreciated

Many thanks, Tristan

Posted by Paul Beuk on 27-08-2008 18:29
#2

Heterocheila buccata?

Posted by Tony Irwin on 27-08-2008 23:58
#3

I think this is Xanthocanace ranula. (It would be a good one for the gallery.)

Posted by Paul Beuk on 28-08-2008 07:33
#4

Ouch. Size would have been helpful. ;)

Posted by Tony Irwin on 28-08-2008 21:40
#5

Well - it is a very crisp shot of quite a small fly! - Of course it helps to know how fine the sand is on North Wales beaches! :p

Posted by tristanba on 30-08-2008 22:13
#6

Thanks Paul & Tony - fairly coarse sand, I would have said, a medium-sized fly rather than a small one!

Could you tell me a little of the ecology of Xanthocanace ranula?

Many thanks
Tristan

Posted by Tony Irwin on 31-08-2008 14:44
#7

I wonder whether I've made another of my celebrated mistakes? :(
This might be a worn Helcomyza ustulata. (Very much bigger than Xanthocanace!) I'll check it out tomorrow.

Edited by Tony Irwin on 31-08-2008 14:44

Posted by Tony Irwin on 01-09-2008 15:48
#8

:( :( :(
Ooops! It is indeed a Helcomyza ustulata.
I guess I should be pleased that I can still admit to mistakes! :)
Apologies to Paul (whose guess was better than mine! :p) and to Tristan for the confusion.

Posted by tristanba on 09-10-2008 20:29
#9

Many thanks Tony and my apologies for the late reply.

Best wishes
Tristan

Edited by tristanba on 09-10-2008 20:30