Rebecca Nason Photography

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Steven Falk: “One of our three Microchrysa species - small, metallic soldierflies lacking spines on the scutellum. This species is readily distinguished by the all-black antennae and black front femorae.

M. polita is a widespread and locally common species usually found in the vicinity of shrubs and trees. Habitats used include woodland, gardens, hedgerows and scrubby brownfield sites.

The larvae develop in various decomposing substances including compost, grass cuttings and dung. The can be identified using Stubbs & Drake (2001). Adults fly from March until October, which is probably the longest flight period for a British soldierfly. Both sexes to rest on shrub or tree foliage and females sometimes congregate around compost heaps and compost heaps.”

Filename
Microchrysa polita_Shetland_1174.jpg
Copyright
Rebecca Nason
Image Size
3044x2029 / 3.4MB
Contained in galleries
SHETLAND INSECTS
Steven Falk: “One of our three Microchrysa species - small, metallic soldierflies lacking spines on the scutellum. This species is readily distinguished by the all-black antennae and black front femorae.<br /> <br /> M. polita is a widespread and locally common species usually found in the vicinity of shrubs and trees. Habitats used include woodland, gardens, hedgerows and scrubby brownfield sites.<br /> <br /> The larvae develop in various decomposing substances including compost, grass cuttings and dung. The can be identified using Stubbs & Drake (2001). Adults fly from March until October, which is probably the longest flight period for a British soldierfly. Both sexes to rest on shrub or tree foliage and females sometimes congregate around compost heaps and compost heaps.”