Description

Body length 8 to 10mm. A small greyish fly with a dark and light grey pattern on the abdomen and, in the male, white spatulate palps.

Habitat

Muddy areas beside streams or ponds. The adults feed on carrion, such as drowned insects, or slow moving aquatic larvae. The larvae live in the mud, feeding on larvae of other invertebrates.

Status and distribution

Mainly confined to the south of Britain but thinly recorded. Few records in Nottinghamshire, but common at Netherfield Lagoons. Possibly overlooked as it is difficult to find information on this species.

Best time to see

June to September.