Cheilosia albitarsis sensu stricto

Cheilosia albitarsis and Cheilosia ranunculi are very similar and can often only be safely determined by detailed examination. Any specimen that has not been subjected to detailed examination should be submitted as Cheilosia albitarsis/ranunculi agg. They are robust with a short broad abdomen. In sunlight the thorax may be seen as metallic dark blue/green. The abdomen is more of a duller grey/bronze colour. Males of Cheilosia albitarsus have the following features: Detailed examination is required. Any specimen that has not been subjected to detailed examination should be submitted as Cheilosia albitarsis sens.lat. Often found in damp meadows, marshy areas, woodland clearings or well-shaded verges and are associated with buttercup. Adult females may sometimes be found landing on a buttercup leaf, walking to the tip and then underneath in order to lay an egg. Cheilosia albitarsis appears to be widespread in Britain, although true status is hard to determine due to difficulties of identification. No additional images available for this species.