Marsh Snipefly Rhagio tringarius

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Classification Order: Diptera – true flies Family: Rhagionidae

Length .8 to 14 mm.

Phenology May to August.

Identification

Similar to Rhagio species, R. tringarius is a yellowy-orange fly which has long, slender legs. This species distinguishes itself by lack the dark wing stigma of most other Rhagio species. The Abdomiinal colour ( black patterning on the orange abdomen) varies, sometimes showing as diamonds or triangles but in others it can be generally lacking altogether.

Similar Species

Of the 6 UK recorded species the only other species without wing markings and a dark stigma is the rare R. annulatus but this species has black humeri and palps whereas in R. tringarius these are yellow.

Life Cycle

Habitat

Hedgerows woods and other well wooded areas with rich vegetation.

 

 

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Black Snipefly  30443