CLOSED: Could this be a Melanostoma sp.?

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mgarr Hanover Twp., PA(Zone 6a) Aug 19, 2007

I found this flying on Solidago. The sun was out so it is hard to get a good picture. Can anyone verify this bug.

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wallaby1 Lincoln, United Kingdom(Zone 8a) Aug 19, 2007

From the pattern on the back as far as I can see it looks like Episyrphus balteatus, they do vary in colour from brownish to yellow or orange tinged. Even the eyes can be brown in some or red, the size varies greatly too. It has a 'moustache' pattern, but without a very close and clear picture I wouldn't like to give a definite ID as these small hoverflies can be tricky, there are many of this type of insect.


http://www.gardensafari.net/english/picpages/episyrphus_balteatus.htm

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mgarr Hanover Twp., PA(Zone 6a) Aug 19, 2007

Thanks! Your right tiny bugs are very difficult especially when your first learning, as I am.

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wallaby1 Lincoln, United Kingdom(Zone 8a) Aug 19, 2007

I have only been researching them for a short time, but spend many hours visiting sites again and again, eventually it starts to come a little clearer! I have found that some species are only identifiable with having a specimen to examine under microscope as they are nearly identical to others.

It's a great learning experience though, can be daunting once you realise what it entails, but I plod on with care!

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mgarr Hanover Twp., PA(Zone 6a) Aug 20, 2007

Thanks that's encouraging. :)

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