Syrphidae
Common Name
Hoverflies or Flower Flies
Overview
The Syrphidae, commonly referred to as hoverflies or flower flies, is a family of flies comprising over 6,000 described species. They are known for their mimicry of bees and wasps and are frequent pollinators in various ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Key Characteristics
- Appearance : These flies often exhibit bright colors and patterns similar to bees or wasps, with black and yellow stripes.
- Wings : Two-winged with a distinctive vein pattern and a characteristic false margin.
- Flight : Excellent hover capability, able to remain stationary in the air.
- Size : Vary in size from 4 to 25 mm.
Life Cycle
- Eggs : Laid on vegetation or near aphid colonies.
- Larvae : Often predatory, feeding primarily on aphids, though some are detritivorous or phytophagous.
- Pupae : Enclosed in a hard puparium, found in soil or amongst leaf litter.
- Adults : Typically feed on nectar and pollen.
Behavior and Ecology
Hoverflies are important pollinators and can be seen visiting flowers during the day. They play a significant role in the biological control of aphids and other pest insects due to their predatory larvae. Mimicry of stinging insects provides protection from predators.
Notable Species
- Eristalis tenax : Common drone fly that mimics a honeybee.
- Syrphus ribesii : Known for its yellow and black stripes and role in aphid control.
- Volucella pellucens : Mimics bumblebees and lays eggs in the nests of social wasps.
Conservation
Some species of hoverflies are threatened by habitat loss and the use of pesticides. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining wildflower meadows and reducing chemical usage.
Significance to Humans
- Pollination : Hoverflies are prolific pollinators, contributing significantly to the health of ecosystems and agriculture.
- Pest control : Their larvae help manage populations of pest insects like aphids, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.