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Tomato Pests & Diseases

Need help IDing this fly

9 years ago

Hi all

I've had these tiny flies for ages, but I need to know what they are. They've been living in the compost bin, but now they're working their way into my tomatoes. I've tried neem oil, to no great effect, and the cera traps remain empty. They're small enough to get through the netting.

Cheers

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Comments (6)

gorbelly
9 years ago
Where are you located?
oakhill (zone 9A, Calif.)
9 years ago
These do not appear to be flies but true bugs (order hemiptera)
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hempt
Original Author
9 years ago
Yes, sorry. Sydney Australia.
gorbelly
9 years ago
It's hard to see important characteristics because of the photo angle. But is it possible you're seeing these? https://www.whatsthatbug.com/category/true-bugs/minute-pirate-bugs/

If so, they're beneficial predators. They're probably attracted to your compost because there are lots of meals living in it, but if it's actually a minute pirate bug of some kind, it's a good thing they're moving onto your tomatoes.
hempt
Original Author
9 years ago
Ooh, interesting! I never thought of that. The colour seems a bit off, but I'll try to get a better angle. Thanks!
gorbelly
9 years ago
There are many different species of minute pirate bug. Not sure what Australian species will look like.

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