Is it poss to say Syrphus vitripennis, or not, please

[Dillybythesea]

After much deliberation I'm thinking Syrphus vitripennis, from the colouring of the hind femur, and lack of hairs in the eyes... but having been known to kick-off with the wrong genus (and go downhill from there) I'd be grateful for input, please!

[catbee]

I have no clue as to what it is, but what beautiful photos. The close up of its head is so clear.

[Dillybythesea]

Well that's a very kind comment catbee! Today happened to be very still, for a change, which increases the chances!

[Geoff F]

If we rule out S. torvus then S. vitripennis must be correct.

Difficult to be absolutely certain of S. torvus in females without close examination of an actual specimen.

[Dillybythesea]

Thank you Geoff, I see what you mean, if it can't really be left to pictures to see the eye hairs, maybe? But good to know I'm on the right track, more or less! Thanks again! Rhona

[posie]

Hi Rhona, as already said beautifully clear pics...Posie..

[Dillybythesea]

Many thanks, neighbourish posie!

[Jason Green]

Evening Rhona,

Yes, possibly vitripennis - but I'd rather microscopially-check the basal wing-cells to put my name to the det'.

Take care,

Jason

[Dillybythesea]

Originally Posted by Jason Green

Yes, possibly vitripennis - but I'd rather microscopially-check the basal wing-cells to put my name to the det'.
[/i]

Thanks Jason! Have just double-checked that comment as part of ongoing research (!) - and am thinking you'd be looking for sparseness of the microtrichia...

(Why can't they come with name badges.)

ATB!

[Jason Green]

Yes, should've said - only about 50%, as opposed to ribesii's c100% coverage. It's quite marked.

It can be achieved with a simple 20x microscope and latero-dorsal lighting coming in at the right angle, and can even be done with a live but prior-refridgerated specimen if you ever fancy doing so yourself.