Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Tachinidae reared from T. processionea or L. dispar (not yet released)
Posted by R_Majoor on 21-04-2021 15:05
#1
Dear forum,
today I found these two parasitic wasps in a box in which I've reared caterpillars of Thaumetopoea processionea and Lymantria dispar last year. I also reared Phalera bucephala in this box, but I collected those as eggs and they are still intact pupae, so I do not think they served as host.
I sit possible to identify these flies from the photos, or if necessary with the collected specimen?
https://waarneming.nl/observation/211367645/
foto's:
Thank you in advance,
Rayan Majoor
Posted by eklans on 21-04-2021 16:08
#2
Hi Rayan, I think it's a Carcelia.
Greetings, Eric
Posted by Zeegers on 21-04-2021 17:57
#3
Yes, hence Carcelia iliaca.
Theo
Posted by R_Majoor on 22-04-2021 16:59
#4
Hi Eric and Theo,
thank you for your responses! Good to know, I'll set the flies free now :)
Kind regards,
Rayan
Posted by Zeegers on 22-04-2021 17:27
#5
Hi Rayan,
Please be careful with rearing Thaumetopoea for your own health !
First time nothing happens, but you gradually build up an allergy and once you have crossed the line, ther is no turning back and you will response to the slightest contact for the rest of your life.
Otherwisr, keep up the good work !
Theo
Posted by R_Majoor on 23-04-2021 19:26
#6
Hi Theo,
thank you for the warning! I didn't know the allergic reactions developed over time. I have seen them now for several years, touched them repeatedly and made attempts to rear them into adulthood three times now. Only last year I got some irritated skin on my arms, but I haven't had this many caterpillars before. But good to know, I'll keep my distance from now on then!
Kind regards,
Rayan