Tephritis bardanae
Tephritis bardanae
One of many similar fruit flies with heavily patterned wings. It is sometimes possible to identify a species based on the wing patterning but some variation does occur, even within members of the same species.
The larvae gall the receptacles, achenes and florets of burdock (Arctium ) leaving blackened callus and debris. Puparia are black, and over-winter in dead flower heads
Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed.
Tephritis bardanae is found around the flower heads of Burdock.
Spring to autumn.
The larvae live on Burdock making a gall.
Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales
Thought to be fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.
Leicestershire & Rutland Map
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MAP KEY:
Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020




