DESCRIPTION: length ranging from 8 to 9mm. A smart Marsh Fly with a mainly brown to black body colour and black tarsi. The most striking features are the orange-red femurs that are adorned with a row of black spikes. The dark thorax sports several pale lines and in certain lights certain parts of the body can sport a pale bluish hue. BEHAVIOUR: The larvae feed on molluscs and aquatic insects. This species has a particular liking for Yellow Flag Iris which grows at the edges of the pond. DISTRIBUTION: A fairly widespread species that becomes more localised further north. HABITAT: Pond edges, wet meadows and marshes. PERIOD: Primarily April to October but can be seen all year round.