Anthrax atriplex
Marston, 1970
Anthrax atriplex is a of bee fly in the Bombyliidae, described by Marston in 1970. Members of the Anthrax are flies whose larvae develop on or within insects. The genus is notably associated with tiger larvae (Cicindelinae) and other ground-nesting insects. bee flies typically visit flowers for nectar and serve as , though their larval involves of other arthropods.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Anthrax atriplex: //ˈæn.θræks ˈæ.trɪ.ˌplɛks//
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More Details
Taxonomic note
Anthrax atriplex was described by Marston in 1970. The Anthrax belongs to the Anthracinae within Bombyliidae, a commonly known as bee flies due to their frequent resemblance to bees.
Genus biology
Larvae of Anthrax are known of tiger larvae (Cicindelinae) and other ground-nesting insects. Female flies deposit near burrow entrances. Upon hatching, larvae attach externally to host larvae and feed as ectoparasitoids, eventually killing the host.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- Catalogue of Life
- Bombyliidae | Beetles In The Bush | Page 2
- ID Challenge #11 | Beetles In The Bush
- Ground nesting bees beware of the bee fly: Bombyliidae — Bug of the Week
- Danger afoot for ground nesting bees: Look out for bee flies, Bombyliidae — Bug of the Week
- Bug Eric: The Stable Fly