Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Platycheirus ?

Posted by Susan R Walter on 02-05-2006 20:08
#7

I suppose the only other possibility is P scutatus, but I would also opt for P albimanus, as it is slightly thicker in the abdomen and the spots are at best bronzy rather than dull orange. Also I would guess that this specimen is not dusted on the frons, although it is a bit difficult to be sure. Time of year makes me lean a bit more towards P albimanus than P scutatus too.

I found it useful when teaching myself Platycheirus several years ago to draw up a grid with the species names across the top and a list of external features including colour of each antennae and leg segment and basic notes on habitat and flight period. I found this easier to use as a raw beginner than the keys initially, as I could draw in information as I acquired it, rather than get stuck on a key couplet.