Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Small flies in copula, Germany
Posted by Pristurus on 02-07-2012 18:41
#1
This couple was found on 2012-06-23 on leafs of beech in a forest near Marburg, central Germany. Regards, Ingo
video:
http://commons.wi...-06-23.ogv
Posted by Sundew on 02-07-2012 19:58
#2
Seem to be Sphaeroceridae - a very difficult family... Paul might say more.
Posted by Paul Beuk on 03-07-2012 09:02
#3
Understandable error, but they are Phoridae. There was a long-lasting dispute between dipterists about the identity of
Musca subsultans Linnaeus, 1767. Some claimed it to be a phorid (now
Borophaga subsultans), others a sphaerocerid (the one we know as
Sphaerocera curvipes). The International COmmission on Zoological nomenclatuer stpped in to settle the matter (in favour of the phorid). The above pictures might actually be a
Borophaga...
Posted by Tony Irwin on 03-07-2012 09:02
#4
These are Phoridae. (Also a difficult family - require specimens for specific determination)
Posted by Jorge on 03-07-2012 13:02
#5
Phoridae, a HUGE and very difficult family
Posted by Pristurus on 04-07-2012 23:52
#6
Thanks to all! Looking to the form of the head first I thought Sphaeroceridae also. However these flies are really small and unusual busy during copulation (flying from one leaf to another in less than 5 sec.). Regards, Ingo