Description

Body length 5 - 6mm. Small long-legged flies with a metallic thorax and abdomen. The species in this genus are very similar and need close scrutiny to differentiate. Pictures show different Dolichopus species.

Habitat

Most species inhabit wetlands and damp grassland where the adults are predators of other insects and the larvae feed on small invertebrates in mud or damp leaf litter.

Status and distribution

They are widespread and mostly common species.

Best time to see

May to August.