Lesser Bulb Fly

Eumerus funeralis/strigatus

Description

Wing length 4 - 6mm. They are a metalic bronze colour with two thin stripes down the thorax and pale bands across the abdomen. Eumerus strigatus and E. funeralis are very similar and both tend to be called Lesser Bulb Fly.

Habitat

Wetlands and lowland areas. The larvae develop in bulbs, such as onion, narcissus, lillies and hyacinth as well as tubers of potato and iris. They tend to attack already infected plants as the larvae need the bulb to already contain other organisms to help promote decay, such as nematodes or fungi.

Status and distribution

Widespread in the southern half of Britain. Can be common on the reserve.

Best time to see

March to November.