Ptochomyza asparagivora Spencer, 1964
Pt. asparagivora is most similar to Ptochomyza asparagi, for morphological information see the description of that species. The presence of two notopleural bristles is regarded as the major difference between the two species asparagi and asparagivora. The former species was believed to have only one notopleural bristle. However, the series of Ptochomyza-material seen by the author contained mainly specimens with two notopleural bristles, independently whether it had been identified as asparagi or asparagivora. Therefore the species status of these two species is questionable and requires further studies.
BIONOMICS
Very similar to Ptochomyza asparagi. However, since more host plants are known, more information on the range of plant structures exploited by the larvae are known. The larvae mine in the thorns, leaves and occasionally also in the stems of some wild asparagus.
HOST PLANT
Asparagus officinalis, also Asparagus falcatus, A. acutifolius, A. stipularis, A. africanus (Spencer, 1985).
DISTRIBUTION
Appears to be restricted to the southern part of Europe. Further records from Pakistan and Africa: Ethiopia (Spencer, 1973) and Kenya (Spencer, 1985).
ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE
Probably of little economic importance.