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Hi,
is it possible to ID this tachinid on species level? I guess it is Ramonda or another Wagneriini relative. Size: 6mm; Date: Mid March in Vienna





Cheers, Lorin

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Yes it is a Wagneriini.

First impression is Periscepsia (Ramonda, if you like) carbonaria.
I would need to have a good view on a humerus to be more sure.

Theo

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Does this help? Also, what features are needed for distinction from similar species?

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I need to see the loaction of the bristles. But the basal one seems broken off ...

Theo

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I can make a lateral image of the other side. Also, I got a second individual, have to figure out whether it is in fact the same species. Are you using the Tschorsnig key? There it is stated that Periscepsia starts to appear in Mid May....

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Weel, I’d look for yourself. I really can’t tell. Are there 2 or 3 or 4 bristles and are the basal three on a straight line or in a triangle.
From these pics, it seems that the left humerus differs from the right, probably bevause some are broken off ? You can check the pores.

Theo

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I considered the Tschorsnig key and accordingly made some new photos.

- Outer verticals at least half the length of inner; long 3rd antennal segment and white hairs at the back of the head lead me to genus Wagneria.




- Costal spine present and lack of discal bristles on tergites + hollowed tergite 2 (see arrows) results in W. cunctans.



Is the conclusion plausible?

Cheers, Lorin

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Thanks. Periscepsia carbonaria .

Theo

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What about the color of the palps - shouldn't they be yellow in Periscepsia?

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any more comments on this one?