Another fly, Stratiomyidae. possibly Stratiomyis - Stratiomys badia

This is a Stratiomys, probabl

This is a Stratiomys, probably Stratiomys badia Walker

… Norm Woodley, 24 May, 2006 - 10:42am

Soldier fly

This is actually a soldier fly, family Stratiomyidae. The "y-"shaped posture of the antennae is one clue I use in separating these from syrphids. Some species have spikes on the hind portion of the thorax, also, visible in profile.

… Eric R. Eaton, 17 September, 2004 - 5:09pm

Stratiomys sp.

This is a species of Startiomys. The shape of the antennae and the presence of two spines on the scutellem are two of the main characters for this genus.

Paul

http://www.diptera.info

… Paul Beuk, 18 September, 2004 - 1:26pm

Stratyomis

Thanks, Paul.

… Beatriz Moisset, 18 September, 2004 - 1:39pm

Stratiomyidae

Thank you Eric, this is very helpful. I had noticed the shape of the antennae but didn't know that it was diagnostic of Stratiomyidae.

… Beatriz Moisset, 17 September, 2004 - 9:05pm

Antennae

Well, the "y-"shaped look of the antennae only goes so far:-) Some mydas flies and robber flies have antennae like that, and at least one syrphid does, but it helps you narrow down the suspects. With practice you can eventually tell pretty easily.

… Eric R. Eaton, 20 September, 2004 - 6:32pm

Antennae (continued)

Moreover, The majority of Stratiomyidae do not have those Y-shaped antennae. These are more or less restricted to groups within the Stratiomyiinae and Hermetiinae. Many species, allthough they are Orthorrhapha, have antennae that mostly resemble those of the cyclorrhphan Diptera: apparently with three larger segments and an arista. Closer examination will show that the 'third' antennal segment is really more or less subdivided into more segments. You will find this in most species of the Sarginae (e.g., Microchrysa, Ptecticus and Sargus.

Paul

http://www.diptera.info

… Paul Beuk, 21 September, 2004 - 8:47am