Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Tephritoidea

Posted by Flippie on 29-09-2019 19:56
#1

This small fruit fly (~4mm) was found at the coast just north of Durban, KZN, South Africa. It was dancing on a leaf like a little peacock. 5 Pictures.

Pic 1:

Posted by Flippie on 29-09-2019 19:57
#2

Pic 2:

Posted by Flippie on 29-09-2019 19:58
#3

Pic 3:

Posted by Flippie on 29-09-2019 19:58
#4

Pic 4:

Posted by Flippie on 29-09-2019 19:59
#5

Pic 5:

Posted by John Carr on 29-09-2019 20:19
#6

I think Platystomatidae, Mesanopin.

Posted by Flippie on 29-09-2019 20:55
#7

Thanks John, much appreciated.

Edited by Flippie on 29-09-2019 20:56

Posted by Flippie on 29-09-2019 21:29
#8

Hi John

From the SANBI species checklist there is only 1 described Mesanopin for South Africa.
Mesanopin palaga, Whittington 2003.
The type was collected in coastal bush at Umhlanga about 10-15km south of my current location.
I have tracked the publication to: https://marjon.collections.crest.ac.uk/17296/1/Taxonomic%20revision%20of%20the%20Afrotropical%20Plastotephritinae_Whittington.pdf
The description on page 170 and pictures on p172 seems to be a good match.

What do you think?

Cheers

Philip

Posted by John Carr on 30-09-2019 00:55
#9

It does seem to be Mesanopin palaga (male). Please submit to gallery.

Posted by Flippie on 30-09-2019 05:49
#10

Thanks John, will do.

Posted by Andrew Whittington on 05-10-2019 09:40
#11

Yes, I can confirm Mesanopin palaga. Wonderful images.