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Hi

I took this photo on 26th July 2006 in Valle de los Caidos, near Madrid - SPAIN. Above a car.

Tabanidae family?





To see it larger go:
http://www.flickr...387&size=l

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I'd say Tabanus female, but not sure which species. :|

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I agree

Tabanus with 3 eye-bands are not that common.
T. nemoralis and T. glaucopis come in mind, given the locality.
However, I would need to see the fly in front view to be more sure.


Theo Zeegers

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Here you can see another photo. I hope this helps!



to see it larger go:

http://www.flickr...418&size=o

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Oke, this helps.

It is Tabanus glaucopis, one of the possibilities mentioned.

Thanks


Theo

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please tell me how can you reached to T. glaucopis? What charateristics enables us to tell which species belongs?

thank you.

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OK.

The stripe between the eyes, in frontal view, is called the frontal stripe.
There are dark markings on this stripe. Usually one below, the lower callus, and one in the middle, the upper callus.
In this case, you can see that the upper callus is broad (not linear) and separated from the lower callus.

Then, the most crucial feature:
below the frontal stripe, just above the antennal base, their is a more or less triangular area called the subcallus. In most Tabanidae, this subcallus is greyish dusted. However, in T. glaucopis is is shining black.
It is difficult to see in your picture, but have a look at the one by Gerard Pennards in the gallery and you'll see what I mean.

This, and the 3 stripes on the eye will lead to T. glaucopis.

Theo

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Thank you a lot for the great lesson! :)
I understand all the information. In next time, I will try to apply this info. :)