Mollusc-parasite
Guides
Pherbellia schoenherri
Spot-winged Little Snailkiller
Pherbellia schoenherri is a small snail-killing fly in the family Sciomyzidae, distributed across the Palearctic region. Adults measure 4–5 mm and exhibit distinctive wing patterning with spinules on the costal vein. The species is notable for its specialized parasitoid life history: females oviposit on the shells of amber snails (Succineidae), particularly Succinea putris, and the larvae consume the host animal before pupating within the shell. It is among the most common and widespread Sciomyzidae in Europe, with an exceptionally long flight period spanning most of the year.