Laphria
Laphria
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Diptera
- Superfamily: Asiloidea
- Family: Asilidae
- Subfamily: Laphriinae
- Genus: Laphria
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Laphria: /ˈlæf.ri.ə/
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Summary
Laphria is a genus of robber flies characterized by their bee-like appearance and predatory behavior. They are found in various habitats and play a significant role in the ecosystem as predators of other flying insects.
Physical Characteristics
Bee-like appearance with a robust body and long legs; typically hairy which aids in camouflage.
Identification Tips
Look for large, predaceous flies that resemble bees, often found hovering or perching in sunny areas.
Habitat
Commonly found in open fields, meadows, and along forest edges.
Distribution
Approximately 62 species in North America, with around 240 total species worldwide; most diverse in Eurasia and North America.
Diet
Adults are predaceous on flying insects, including bees and other flies; larvae feed on rotten wood insects.
Life Cycle
Larvae develop in decaying wood, pupating under tree bark.
Reproduction
Oviposition typically occurs in substrates associated with decaying wood.
Ecosystem Role
Important as predators of pest insects; play a role in controlling populations of flying insects.
Collecting Methods
- Netting adult flies in habitats where they are commonly seen.
- Using bait traps to attract them.
Preservation Methods
- Drying specimens for morphological studies.
- Pinning for display in entomological collections.
Misconceptions
Often mistaken for bees, but they do not sting; they are beneficial predators rather than pests.
Tags
- robber flies
- predators
- Eurasia
- North America