Platycheirus splendidus

Very similar to P. scutatus and only described as a separate species in 1998, by Graham Rotheray. Males can be easily distinguished from those of scutatus by the deep black frons (pale grey-dusted in scutatus). The spots on the tergites, especially tergite 2, are smaller. Females are not currently separable. P. aurolateralis is also similar but darker with dusky spots on the tergites, often missing entirely on tergite 2.

A (males only – females cannot be identified from photographs)

Please provide good quality close-up images.

Recorded from a variety of habitats, though usually not far from trees. 

P. splendidus is mainly a spring and early summer-flying species. 

The mottled green, white and pink larvae have been reported attacking aphids on Wych Elm and Red Campion.

It appears to be widespread but rather localised in Britain.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.