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. We suggest expert help be sought when identifying this species.

The larva cause galls in Cirsum palustre and C heterophyllum.

Adult Gall

Areas where the host plants are found

All year - but peak time is late spring to early autumn.

Tephritis conura was previously associated with Melancholy Thistle (Cirsium heterophyllum) which is not found in Leicestershire and Rutland, but latest reports suggest that populations is northern Britain are using the substitute larval foodplant Marsh Thistle (Cirsium palustre) which is quite common in our area.

To follow.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.