News / Nature
Has a new insect been discovered in south Bristol?
An insect as yet unknown to science could have been discovered on Bristol’s last working farm.
The intriguing discovery took place following an entomology report at Yew Tree Farm, with details of the fly as yet unknown to science sent to experts in Germany in order to undertake more studies.
Specialists consulted in Germany and Russia have so far been unable to name the fly, with other insects found on the farm previously never been found before in the local area.
is needed now More than ever
In his invertebrate survey of Yew Tree Farm, David Gibbs said that the discovery of a single male meromyza was of “considerable significance” as it “so far eludes identification”.
“This very distinctive Chloropid fly, much darker than other members of the genus and with quite different genitalia, appears to be new for Britain. Further research needed to identify it is ongoing.”
A field maple at Yew Tree Farm – photo: Catherine Withers
Yew Tree Farm owner Catherine Withers said that she is “thrilled” by the potential new insect being found on her land.
“I never thought we were still discovering new insect species in the UK so to potentially have one on our little farm in Bristol is beyond special,” Catherine told Bristol24/7.
“What makes it even more unique is that we nearly lost this land to housing so this insect may have disappeared before it was ever noticed.
“I do hope all those in power help protect the farm from future threats so we can continue producing food and protecting our precious wildlife.”
The farm in Bedminster Down remains remains vulnerable from housing, with an application recently submitted to make the land a Site of Nature Conservation Interest which would protect it further from development.
Main photo: Catherine Withers
Read next:
- The fight continues to save Bristol’s last working farm
- ‘Bristolians feel strongly about trees, perhaps it’s that we keep losing them’
- Bristol, bats and biodiversity
- Two countryside sites on Bristol’s outskirts at risk of development
Listen to Catherine Withers on episode 71 of the Bristol24/7 Behind the Headlines podcast:
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
