Hoverflies from Summer for ID

loripo · #1 (**permalink**) 29-12-2009, 03:02 PM

I'm having trouble deciding which these might be, so thanks for any help...

The third has a very pointed body and the only one I could find which is similar is Eupeodes (latifaciatus?)

Geoff F · #2 (**permalink**) 29-12-2009, 03:27 PM

The first one is easy; Episyrphus balteatus.

The second has a deep loop in the middle wing vein which signifies Eristalini family and I suspect Myathropa florea although there isn't much grey on the thorax.

The third appears, at first glance, to be Syrphus ribesii. There are a few similar alternatives but the leg colouration is making me consider S. ribesii. The all yellow hind femur separates female S. ribesii from the otherwise identical S. vitripennis.

I will have another think and book consultation though.

JRsbugs · #3 (**permalink**) 29-12-2009, 05:31 PM

I agree with those, first two are males.

Janet

Geoff F · #4 (**permalink**) 30-12-2009, 05:06 PM

Thanks for the confirmation, Janet. I thought I was probably correct but just had a few doubts concerning the thorax of Myathropa florea and the Syrphus abdomen appeared to be a touch on the narrow side, but that is probably just the angle of the photo.

Jason Green · #5 (**permalink**) 30-12-2009, 06:04 PM

Hi Lori,

Yes, I agree too. I looked in on this one the other day but was pushed for time so couldn't reply. I can only echo any doubts on the florea one, though I agree - it still has faint markings on the thorax and yellow abdominal hairs. I even considered Eristalis horticola for a little while - they both appear quite yellow with marked thoraxes. It of course lacks the brown tint to the wings so am happy with florea

Take care,

Jason

Geoff F · #6 (**permalink**) 31-12-2009, 05:12 PM

That was my thinking, Jason; E. horticola was the possibility for which I needed to consult my books. Overall, that is a rather dull coloured specimen of M. florea.

Still, at least we are all agreed on these.

Learning more about hoverflies is one of my plans for 2010.

loripo · #7 (**permalink**) 31-12-2009, 05:52 PM

Thanks for that. It was the dark colouring that stumped me! I read somewhere that hoverflies may be darker or lighter in colour depending on the light conditions when they emerge, but I can't now find that. Must do more reading too