Drosophila immigrans

Size about 5 mm. This is an orange-brown and red-eyed fly with black broken bands along the base of each abdominal tergite. The front femur has a row of small black spines on the anterior side - a feature which is unique to this species.

• c5mm
• orange-brown with large reddish eyes
• black wedges along the base of each abdominal tergite, usually broken in the middle
• the outer crossvein and apical tips of the longitudinal veins R2+3 and R4+5 have dark smudges
• a row of small dark spines along the anterior edge of the front femor

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters.

This species has been associated with various fungi and also with fruit. It is often found in garden compost heaps.

May be encountered in most months of the year probably peaking from August to October.

Seems to be widespread in England though infrequently recorded.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.