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(S.Falks quote): 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.

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Filename: Microchrysa polita_Black-horned Gem_Shetland_9217.jpg
Copyright: Rebecca Nason
Image Size: 2367x1578 / 3.3MB; Microchrysa polita Black-horned Gem soldierfly fly insect diptera lerwick shetland summer july UK
Contained in galleries: Shetland Insects

(S.Falks quote): 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.