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UK Nature  > Flies  > Trypetoptera punctulata




Scientific Name:   Trypetoptera punctulata
Common Name:   Snail-killing Fly

Trypetoptera punctulata, sometimes known as the Snail-killing Fly, is 6-7mm in length and attractively-marked. It is a member of the Scyomizidae family - the wing pattern helps to identify the species. It also has long, forward-pointing antennae, typical of the family. Unusually for the Sciomyzids, it is a species of dry habitats, especially calcareous woodlands.

On the wing from May to October, peaking in June. The members of this family deposit their eggs near snails and the larvae eat the snail. There is some evidence that the adults also kill snails directly. This means that the members of this family are useful in biological pest control. Common and widespread, but under-recorded.










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