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Found in Malaise trap sample, July-August, southern Netherlands, 3 mm

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Dear Paul
I have no idea. Without a closer look of the anterior and posterior spiracles it is impossible (for me) to tell which family. I'm only guessing Drosophilidae for the anterior spiracles seems very anterior, almost lateral of first thoracic segment. The circular rings of brown spicules at the second and third thoracic segment and first and penultimate abdominal segment is strange and must be typical. If you like you can send it to me, but I think family level would be the highest level for me.

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As a rule, first instar larvae in a malaise trap have been deposited by a gravid female, so I check out which larviparous species are present and whether any of them are gravid females - often there is one with an emerging larva that can be compared to the "free" larvae in the sample.

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Ah, yes, Tony, I very much see your point and I am well familiar with larvae that are likely there because of the larviparous species. Generally those will be Calliphoridae or perhaps Sarcophagidae, but these have rings of spicules on most body segments, rather than just a few segments near the thoracic region and a single ring at the posterior end. Exactly that what Ton remarked ('must be typical') was why I picked it out in the first place and decided to post it here. I will check another few books at the office and then see if I will send it of to Ton.

Both thanks for your reply.

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adding a photo of mine to illustrate the general appearance of the larvae of Calliphoridae. The photo depicts a larva of Onesia. I want to add that the larvae of Calliphoridae are generally more robust but i've not seen all of the larvae.

Anyway, interesting post. please let us know what it is when you discover its identity.

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Looks like a first instar of Sarcophaga (Heteronychia) filia or related species