Root-Maggot Fly

Anthomyia

Anthomyiidae diptera from Kitale, Kenya. Photo © by Michael Plagens

Observed at the Kitale Museum, Kitale, Kenya, April 2013.

It might be just a coincidence, but during my several visits I have photographed a number of sharply contrasting red, black and white fly species in similar habitats in Kenya. Given that birds with very acute vision often target soft bodied flying insects, it might be that this represents a signal or other diversion aimed at avoiding predation. Indeed the markings suggest a similarity to the bold striping of Zebra.

Anthomyidae -- Root-Maggot Family

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Kenya Natural History

Copyright Michael J. Plagens. Page created 8 October 2013,
updated 28 Aug. 2017.