Beneficial insects in the garden: #25 Long-legged flies

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Quick Facts

Common Name:

Long-legged flies
Genus / Species:

Dolichopus spp.
Size:
1/4 inch

Type of Beneficial:

Insect predator

Type of Metamorphosis:

Immature stages appear different from adults (i.e., complete metamorphosis)

Beneficial Stage(s):

Immature stages and adult stage are insect predators
Prey:

Adult are general feeders: thrips, aphids, larvae of small insects, spider mites, etc. Immatures of some species prey on small insects, while others are believed to be scavengers

Occurrence:

Widespread across the Galveston-Houston region; seldom recognized and underappreciated.

Mounted Specimen?

Yes (mounted specimen for viewing available in insect collection at County Extension Office)


Every spring, a war erupts in backyards all over the Upper Gulf Coast of Texas. It is a vicious struggle between butterfly gardeners and spider mites over who really owns the lantana. And there is a limited defensive arsenal.
Organic gardeners who don’t use chemicals are left with the “hard-sprays-of-water” option. Thank goodness there is something in Mother Nature’s armory that targets spider mites: the long-legged fly.

This web site is maintained by Master Gardener Laura Bellmore, under the direction of William M. Johnson, Ph.D., County Extension Agent-Horticulture & Master Gardener Program Coordinator.

All digital photographs are the property of the Galveston County Master Gardener Association, Inc. (GCMGA) © 2002-2006 GCMGA - All Rights Reserved.