Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Helina -> H. impuncta/depuncta

Posted by smol on 09-10-2023 20:38
#1

Netherlands, today, near lake

I am aware of the difficulty of this species, but I was wondering if the black banded at the back of scutellum (seen in the 2nd picture) is something that is seen by more Helina species?

waarneming.nl/media/photo/78781375.jpg
waarneming.nl/media/photo/78781376.jpg
waarneming.nl/media/photo/78781377.jpg
waarneming.nl/media/photo/78781378.jpg

Edited by smol on 12-10-2023 18:30

Posted by eklans on 10-10-2023 13:00
#2

I think, this apical black spot is based on reflections and not relevant for determination. I cannot clearly decide whether there are presutural acr bristles (H. cf. impuncta) or not (H. cf. depuncta) - but I'm not a "Helinastyc" expert...

Posted by smol on 12-10-2023 18:29
#3

eklans wrote:
I think, this apical black spot is based on reflections and not relevant for determination. I cannot clearly decide whether there are presutural acr bristles (H. cf. impuncta) or not (H. cf. depuncta) - but I'm not a "Helinastyc" expert...


Thank you very much Eric! That sounds far more reasonable, as I have not noticed this before :) I notice the H. impuncta/depuncta are one of the more easily recognized species in the genus. What makes these two so recognizable? Is it the light coloured thorax and orange femur/tibia combination?

A very interesting (and common), but very difficult genus :)