DIPTERA > BRACHYCERA | Higher Diptera

MUSCOMORPHA > ASCHIZA >  Syrphoidea > Syrphidae > Syrphinae > Syrphini

This is my second Syrphini tribe collection covering two closely related genera.

Xanthogramma

This genus now includes three distinctive species:

Xanthogramma pedissequum is a mainly southern species that despite being widespread and common requires carefully checking to ensure there's no confusion with the very similar Xanthogramma stackelbergi, which is a relatively new species. They could be regarded as a complex but, with the right angle of view, can be distinguished from the extent of the yellow markings on the side of the thorax. Although there have only been a few confirmed observations of Xanthogramma stackelbergi, the current rule of thumb is to record Xanthogramma pedissequum in the strict sense (s.str) only when the markings are clear. If there's any element of doubt, then it's best to be cautious (s.lat). Both species are associated with grasslands, but the latter seems to be more frequent along the edge of woodland rides rather than more open habitats.

Xanthogramma citrofasciatum is a not dissimilar, albeit paler form, which could be found in pretty much the same area and habitat as the previous species, but probably more frequently on calcareous grassland. It is, however, a much scarcer species, so I was pleased to find one on my local downs.

Sphaerophoria

Although there are eleven listed species in this genus only three are normally considered and, even then, it's only the males of Sphaerophoria scripta and Sphaerophoria rueppellii that are identifiable. Females are always left as unidentified Sphaerophoria sp. They are small, elongate, generally black-and-yellow banded hoverflies with a yellow scutellum. Early spring individuals often look darker especially when the abdominal markings are broken forming yellow spots rather than continuous bands. 

Sept.24