The Society for the study of flies (Diptera)

Hi everyone,

Last year we moved of the British and World collection of Diptera (and the rest of the Insects except the beetles and bugs) into their new home in the Darwin Centre. At the same time we also developed a synoptic collection of British Diptera which is located in the AMC for UK Biodiversity at the Museum and is open for all to go and use. Whilst doing this we were able to assess the state of the collection and do an inventory of what we have and don't have.

Here is where i would like some help. We have created a spreadsheet of all the British Diptera (well we borrowed and adapted the Dipterists Forum one!!) and beside each species we have a code. 

http://www.dipteristsforum.org.uk/documents/British Collection.xls

It is relatively easy code which if it is a 'y' it means that we have more than 5 specimens in the collection, if there is a number beside it that is the exact amount. What we would really like is to develop a comprehensive collection and therefore would appreciate any British specimens to help us fill the gaps. Being the NHM we do require a letter of transfer but I can organise most of that to save people the hassle of the forms.

You will also know that some of the groups have yet to have the code entered e.g. Drosophila. We have to complete this!

Thank you in advance for any help or donations and if you have any queries regarding this or anything else about the collection please do not hesitate to contact me

Cheers,

Erica

e.mcalister@nhm.ac.uk

Dr Erica McAlister
Curator of Diptera
Department of Entomology
Natural History Museum
London
SW7 5BD