Sciara

Sciara

Description

There are several species in this genus that are very similar with a conspicuous yellow abdomen.

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

If you are unable to key a specimen to reach a species ID, then record your sighting as this genus.

Habitat

Found in woodland, hedgerows and moorland.

When to see it

Peak July and August.

Life History

This fly belongs to a group referred to as fungus gnats. The larvae do feed on fungi but also eat dead leaves and compost. The adults feed on nectar and can be found on umbellifers and other flowers.

UK Status

Fairly frequent and widespread in England and Wales.

VC55 Status

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland

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