Sphaerophoria sp.

[yorkie in fod]

I saw this hoverfly (link below) on 27th July on angelica flowers at the Cinderford Linear Park nature reserve in the Forest of Dean, in a meadow beside a stream and ponds.

http://i635.photobucket.com/albums/uu80/maris-uk/Staeniata1quIMG_4906.jpg

My initial impression was that it was larger than other Sphaerophoria I have seen before. It has large undivided yellow bands on the abdomen and I wondered whether it may be S. taeniata. Reading about the similar species in S&F, S. batava is found on heathland, and S. fatarum seems to be a northern species, though has been found in nearby Wales in woodland rides.

Is an id possible from the photo and location? Thanks

Yorkie

[benacre]

Hi I have uploaded a similar image, they do seem to be variable.

Awaiting stubbs for my Birthday next week.

[Roger K.A. Morris]

Hello

This genus requires detailed microscopic examination of the male genitalia - cannot be done from photos although one can develop and element of jizz. My jizz feeling lets me down here.

Regards

Roger