Lesser Dung Flies (Sphaeroceridae) - 47 Species, Identification & Facts

Coproica acutangula

Identification: Males are identified by curling of the hind wing margin near the tip (see photo). The modified male wing is used to hold the female wing during mating. (See discussion on diptera.info .)

Coproica ferruginata

Identification: Second costal section (R1 to R2+3) longer than third (R2+3 to R4+5); mid tibia with 3 anterodorsal and posterodorsal bristles; thorax rusty red with a darker central stripe. (Along with C. vagans ) "They are probably the most abundant

Copromyza equina

Length 3.5 to 5mm. The lesser dung fly Copromyza equina is one of several similar species in this family. Detailed examination is required. All year round, but peaking spring to autumn. It appears to be widespread in Britain but true status is not ea

Crumomyia pedestris

A small black fly (3 or 4 mm) often with greatly reduced wings and appearing wingless, although fully winged forms do occur. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comm

Spelobia ochripes

Eulimosina ochripes

Previously referred to as Spelobia ochripes. The subgenus Eulimosina elevated to genus by Papp (2008, New Genera of the Old World Limosininae)

Leptocera erythrocera

Identification: The most widespread and often the most common Leptocera in the Americas.

Opalimosina mirabilis

Identification: Long, spur originating near the middle of the underside of the hind tibia (not apical as in some Sphaerocerinae).

Poecilosomella angulata

Marshall and Buck write: "The only Central American species of this primarily tropical Old World/Australasian genus, P. angulata (Thomson), was probably introduced from the Afrotropical Region. It now occurs in many Central and South American countri

Rachispoda spuleri

Identification: Three dorsocentral bristles in addition to the incurved one (most other species with at least a weak fourth), no stong acrostichals but about 8 rows of weak hairs, third segment of antenna reddish, scutum with at least faint stripes w

Sphaerocera curvipes

This species of Lesser Dung Fly has a characteristic hooked spine that arches under the base tarsal segment of the hind leg. Males have noticeably swollen hind femora. Detailed images are required showing the distinguishing features. Often found arou