Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Bombylius major still ?

Posted by LordV on 26-03-2007 19:45
#1

If the beefly here is Bombylius major http://www.diptera.info/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=5&thread_id=5257

Is this one also ? taken today- fly is smaller (10mm vs 13mm) not so furry, more uniform in colour.
Brian V.

farm1.static.flickr.com/184/435362273_879d0ff114.jpg

Posted by David Gibbs on 27-03-2007 10:57
#2

if you are in GB then yes this is major, a female whereas the other photo is male. size means little with these parasitoides and colour and furryness is often a function of age/ware.

Posted by LordV on 27-03-2007 17:25
#3

Thanks David :)
Do the adults overwinter ?
Brian V.

Posted by David Gibbs on 27-03-2007 18:59
#4

LordV wrote:
Thanks David :)
Do the adults overwinter ?
Brian V.


no, they overwinter in their host burrow, either as full fed larvae or pupae, if former then pupating in late winter, in the case of major and discolor emerging March April (males usually first) leaving their pupal exuvia sticking out of the soil.