Posted by Sundew on 28-07-2007 22:05
#1
Hi,
When taking photographs for my lecture on pollination biology in our small botanical garden, the Spaeth Arboretum in Berlin-Baumschulenweg, I came across an insect that seemed to be a Lomatia species of Bombyliidae. Though in the internet there are many nice German insect galleries that show lots of common Diptera I was unable to detect a picture of a member of this genus taken in my country. So I wonder if it has been overlooked, or is it really a rare finding? Is it a South European taxon that migrates north through global warming?
I am afraid the photographs are no brilliant quality, as I have a small tourist camera only. The upper one was taken in twilight on July 9, the animal resting on a marigold stalk (Calendula, Asteraceae). The lower one is from July 17, Lomatia feeding on milfoil (Achillea, Asteraceae).
I do not expect to become supplied with a species name but would be glad to get a confirmation of the genus and some information about distribution and rarity of Lomatia.
Thanks in advance by a newcomer in this forum,
Sundew
Posted by Zeegers on 29-07-2007 15:37
#2
I have little doubt this is Lomatia.
Surprising find, in Berlin, as far as I know.
Theo Zeegers
Posted by David Gibbs on 29-07-2007 16:22
#3
certainly
Lomatia, top one female, lower male, suggesting a colony rather than a stray. only species on German list is
lateralis (as far as i know), however, other species known in Hungary and Poland so not impossible that it could be something else. definately need specimen to confirm.
Posted by Sundew on 29-07-2007 22:50
#4
Many thanks, Theo and David.
I shall keep track of the animals and watch whether they will increase in number.
In any case I am happy to know a new genus.
Sundew