Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Family: Stratiomyidae
Genus: Sargus
Species: S. bipunctatus
Common name: Twin-spot Centurion

The Twin-spot Centurion (Sargus bipunctatus) is a handsome metallic soldier fly belonging to the family Stratiomyidae. It is widespread and fairly common across much of Europe and the UK, most often seen from late summer to autumn (August to October).

Adults have a slender, metallic green or bronze body with a bluish or purplish sheen, and their name refers to the two small pale spots on each side of the abdomen. They are 7–10 mm long, with clear wings, long legs, and large eyes that give them a sleek, wasp-like appearance.

These flies are usually found in woodland edges, gardens, hedgerows, and meadows, where they may be seen resting on foliage or feeding on nectar.

The larvae live in decaying organic matter, such as compost heaps, rotting vegetation, and animal dung. They help break down waste materials, playing an important role in decomposition and soil health.

Although sometimes mistaken for small wasps because of their metallic colouring, Sargus bipunctatus is completely harmless and is a beautiful example of the bright, glossy soldier flies often found in late summer sunlight.