Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Tachinidae (now identified as Bithia spreta)
Posted by Malgo on 22-11-2020 16:43
#1
This fly was about 8mm and seen on Martin Down, a chalk grassland site in the south of England. The bristly abdomen suggests a Tachinid but vein M curves gently rather than bending sharply. Any help in identifying it would be appreciated.
Edited by Malgo on 22-11-2020 17:34
Posted by Malgo on 22-11-2020 16:45
#2
Adding photo
Edited by Malgo on 22-11-2020 16:52
Posted by Malgo on 22-11-2020 16:48
#3
Adding photo
Edited by Malgo on 22-11-2020 16:52
Posted by Malgo on 22-11-2020 16:53
#4
Fourth photo
Posted by Zeegers on 22-11-2020 17:01
#5
A Bithia spreta, a chalky species indeed.
While Sarcophagidae always has a angular bend in vein, several Tachinidae do not: all the tribe Blondeliini, many Leskiini (amongst which Bithia) and no doubt others.
Theo
Posted by Malgo on 22-11-2020 17:33
#6
Many thanks for the quick identification. This species does not show up on most sites featuring Tachinids so it is not surprising I couldn't id it. Even this site only has photos identified as Bithia sp.
Malcolm
Posted by Zeegers on 22-11-2020 19:14
#7
Many Bithia are very difficult to separate, but spreta is a kind of "Eriothrix light" if you get my meaning: small red lateral spots on tergites.
It is definitely uncommon, but well known from southern England.
Theo