Posted by Ness on 27-01-2016 16:42
#1
Hi,
I found a bunch of larvae like this one on cereal stems in Catalonia (north-eastern Spain) in Spring (May-June) and I kept them in ethanol 70º.
I thought it was a Syrphidae, but the key I am using (from: “AN INTRODUCTION TO THE IMMATURE STAGES OF BRITISH FLIES: DIPTERA LARV AE, WITH NOTES ON EGGS, PUPARIA AND PUPAE”, by KGV Smith) says:
“- Posterior spiracles close together on a fused process of varying length, from short to an elongate retractile tube (figs 252-281). -> Syrphidae (p. 80)
- Posterior spiracles not on a fused process and,
if appearing fused, then lacking spicules, tubercles or dense pubescence . 11”
And as I can’t see spicules, tubercles or pubescense, I am not so sure. Posterior spiracles are fused but on a very short process. They are all about 0.7 - 1 cm long.
I know these aren't great pictures but could someone confirm if this is or isn’t a Syrphidae?
Thanks!
Edited by Ness on 27-01-2016 17:14
Posted by Ectemnius on 27-01-2016 20:27
#3
Hi Ness,
Certainly looks like a Syrphidae to me. If you wanna find out you might try using the keys in: An introduction to the imaatures stages of British Flies
found here: http://www.royensoc.co.uk/content/out-print-handbooks
Greetings,
Ectemnius
Posted by Ness on 28-01-2016 11:34
#4
Thank you! :) That's the key I am using, but thanks anyway.
Edited by Ness on 28-01-2016 11:35
Posted by Ectemnius on 28-01-2016 13:25
#7
Dohhhh..... Reading the description accurately is what I didn't do! :D