Melinda viridicyanea

Melinda viridicyanea

Alternative names
Dark-palped Melinda
Description

5-9mm. Abdomen metallic blue, thorax black. Long bristles makes it resemble a tachinid. The front of the thorax has three dark stripes. Palps are black.

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

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.

Habitat

Found in various habitats including woodland, disused quarries, meadows.

When to see it

Late spring to late summer.

Life History

It is a snail parasite. Known hosts includes Discus rotundatus, Cernuella virgata and Helicella itala. Adults feed on nectar.

UK Status

Common and widespread in the UK.

VC55 Status

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

All NatureSpot records