Posted by
LordV on 12-09-2006 10:22
#1
Wasn't sure where to post this but does anyone know if the pseudoscorpions attached to this dead fly are primary predators/parasites or just scavengers.
Seems odd they way they are attached if they are just scavengers.
Pic taken Yesterday the pseudoscorpions are about 2mm long.
Brian V.
#2
A sad case of unsuccessful phoresy - I hope they took out travel insurance!
The pseudoscorpions (they look like
Lamprochernes nodosus) were merely hitching a ride on the fly - it's a prefered method for getting from one compost heap to another. They are unlikely to have caused the death of the fly - they merely chose unreliable transport. And like the indefatigable passengers on the British Rail network, they await - wondering why it's taking so long - and remarking "it was never as bad as this when the Conservatives were in power!"
#4
If they were feeding, they would have their legs on the ground - this is their "Hang on, we're going for a ride!" pose.
And they are predators (of things smaller than themselves), not scavengers - this fly is much too big for them to tackle.
