Thread subject: Diptera.info :: tachinid

Posted by jane bowman on 13-12-2009 20:14
#1

Sorry the file was too big!

Found in the Scottish Highlands 09/07/09 An ID please.

Thanks Jane

Posted by Zeegers on 13-12-2009 20:34
#2

Linnaemyia vulpina


Excellent pic.


Theo

Posted by syrphus on 16-12-2009 09:19
#3

Hello Theo. I notice in another thread that you say this species is unmistakable. What are the critical characters to use?

Regards,

Murdo

Edited by syrphus on 16-12-2009 09:21

Posted by ChrisR on 16-12-2009 11:24
#4

Basically, a projecting mouth edge, densely hairy eyes, yellow basicosta, orange-sided abdomen and an orange femur ... and after you have seen a lot of the alternative tachinids then these ones just look like vulpina ;)

Also, the fact that it would be flying close to moors and heaths would strongly suggest L.vulpina :)

Edited by ChrisR on 16-12-2009 11:25

Posted by syrphus on 16-12-2009 11:40
#5

Thanks, Chris. I will look out for it. Only one dot in Scotland on the Gateway, but I expect it is widespread. I have certainly seen similar things, but I am not confident with muscids, tachinids, etc.

M.

Posted by ChrisR on 16-12-2009 14:03
#6

Well, if you get a calyptrate fly that looks quite like this flying in and out of clumps of Heather then it's a fair bet so get your net on it ;) If you want anything confirming then feel free to send them to me :)