COMMON NAME
Long legged flies
Order

Suborder

Family

Genus

Species

Alias
Diptera



Dolichopodidae






Description

There are many species of long-legged flies, which typically have metallic blue-green and black bands on their body but some are just brown or black in colour. . Sometimes they can be distinguished by their erect stance with the body straight up on their stilt-like legs The larvae are white maggots found in soil or under the bark of trees.

Adult size: 1-9 mm

Out and about

They are going to be around when their food source is; spring through summer and probably into autumn. They are found in many diverse habitats around the world including some species which live in or near waterways. In Australia they are found mainly around the coastal areas.

Reproduction and Life cycle

To deter

To control

Plants to repel

Plants to attract

Any plants with small flowers.

Predators

Why they are Beneficial
Adults feed on soft-bodied insects such as aphids, thrips, spider mites and the larvae of other insects. They will also feed on nectar. The larvae feed on small invertebrates and the larvae of other insects.
calendarchevron-upsticky-note-ohand-paper-o