Species details
Portevinia maculata (Fallén, 1817)
NomenclatureCheilosia maculata Fallén in Coe (1953).
BiologyThe larva tunnels in the bulbs of Ramsons Allium ursinum. During its short flight period, males are often abundant around stands of the larval food plant, where they can be seen visiting the flowers and resting on the foliage. Females generally fly low down amongst the plants and are more difficult to find.
DistributionAlthough very widely distributed, this species is most frequently found in more heavily wooded regions. Current data suggest that cooler regions are preferred and the comparative lack of records from the south and east where recorder effort is highest may be indicative of this. Woodlands in the Pennines and southern Scotland are exceptionally suitable.