Some observation on the biology and predaceous behaviour of Schoenomyza litorella (Fallén, 1823) (Muscidae, Coenosiinae).Beobachtungen zur Biology and zum räuberischen Verhalten von Schoenomyza litorella (Fallén, 1823) (Muscidae, Coenosiinae)

Both field observations of prey capture and functional-morphological examination of the proboscis have confirmed the predaceous way of life of Schoenomyza litorella (Fallén, 1823). The mouthparts are of particular significance for overpowering and killing the prey, which is reflected in the structure of the inner surface of the labella. In addition to three claw-like prestomal teeth, there is a ventrally-directed dagger-like tooth exactly at the middle of the oral disc, which is formed as a projection from the discal sclerite. The structure and function of the various mouthparts is described and compared with species of the genus Coenosia Meigen, 1826. Long-term observations in Thuringia between 1972 and 2004 have shown that S. litorella occurs in xerothermic grasslands particularly during the damp, cool and stormy months from September to December. Although the maximum seasonal abundance is in the months from spring to autumn, the species is also active during the winter depending on the nature of the biotope.