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Neomyia sp.
This fly is the proof that we should be very careful when naming an insect. At first sight it looks as the typical blue bottle fly that is common on dead animals and similars, generally Calliphoridae of genus Lucilia. But this is not the case, it is not only a different genus (Neomyia), but even a different family (Muscidae). So we have different flies with very similar aspect. Convergent evolution? Or there are so many flies that is impossible not to repeat the design? These flies usually have a metallic green tegument (skin surface) when young, but they turn bronze with age as this becomes worn. There are many green flies of several different families and microscopic examination is usually needed to identify most of them. There are two Neomyia species which are very hard to distinguish from a photo. They also resemble Lucilia 'greenbottle' flies. Larvae can be found in dung. Adults take the pollen and nectar of various flowers.
Holm oak forest
Spotted on Jun 17, 2013
Submitted on Oct 8, 2013
1 Comment
Changed ID to Neomyia sp.