Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Pseudoscorpions on fly
Posted by LordV on 12-09-2006 10:22
#1
Wasn't sure where to post this but does anyone know if the pseudoscorpions attached to this dead fly are primary predators/parasites or just scavengers.
Seems odd they way they are attached if they are just scavengers.
Pic taken Yesterday the pseudoscorpions are about 2mm long.
Brian V.
Posted by Tony Irwin on 12-09-2006 14:45
#2
A sad case of unsuccessful phoresy - I hope they took out travel insurance! ;)
The pseudoscorpions (they look like
Lamprochernes nodosus) were merely hitching a ride on the fly - it's a prefered method for getting from one compost heap to another. They are unlikely to have caused the death of the fly - they merely chose unreliable transport. And like the indefatigable passengers on the British Rail network, they await - wondering why it's taking so long - and remarking "it was never as bad as this when the Conservatives were in power!":D
Posted by LordV on 12-09-2006 14:49
#3
:):):)
So just hitching a ride and definitely not feeding ?
Brian V.
Posted by Tony Irwin on 12-09-2006 21:54
#4
If they were feeding, they would have their legs on the ground - this is their "Hang on, we're going for a ride!" pose.
And they are predators (of things smaller than themselves), not scavengers - this fly is much too big for them to tackle.