Formosa Fruit Fly Tephritis formosa

Tephritid Fruit Fly
Tephritis formosa with ovipositor
There are many species of Tephritid Fruit Flies, all with attractive wing markings. The fly shown here is called Tephritis formosa, the latter meaning beautiful.
Tephritis formosa
Tephritid Fruit Fly
Tephritis Fruit Fly
All Tephritid Fruit Flies are types of Gall Fly, laying their eggs in plants, including fruit, for the larvae to eat. Formosa lays her eggs in flower heads of Hawk's-beard, Cat's-ear and Sow-thistle.
Formosa Fruit Fly female Female with ovipositor
Formosa Tephritid Fruit Fly female Female with ovipositor
Tephritid Fruit Fly male Male
Formosa Fruit Fly
Formosa Tephritid Fruit Fly
Formosa Tephritid Fruit Fly