Metopina
Metopina
Length 1-2mm. High, rounded thorax that gives them a distinct "humpbacked" silhouette. Characteristic wing venation - heavy, shortened costa and radial veins clustered along the front base of the wing, with faint, thin veins running unbranched across the rest of the membrane. The frons (front of the head) features a set of supra-antennal bristles; the arrangement of fronto-orbital and interfrontal bristles helps distinguish Metopina from closely related genera like Megaselia.
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.
Adults frequently visit flowers (e.g., Taraxacum, Ranunculus) for nectar and pollen, acting as minor pollinators. Adults are also attracted to buried organic matter or carrion. Larvae feed on decaying plant material, soil fungi, dead insects, and animal remains, contributing to nutrient cycling.
Common and widespread.
Unknown, under-recorded.
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Additional images
No additional images available for this species.

