Xenox

Evenhuis, 1985

Tiger Bee Fly

Species Guides

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Xenox is a of bee flies in the Bombyliidae, established by Evenhuis in 1985. The genus contains five described , all of which are whose larvae develop inside the nests of carpenter bees in the genus Xylocopa. The most widely known member is Xenox tigrinus, commonly called the tiger bee fly, which is frequently observed near human structures where carpenter bees nest.

Xenox tigrinus by (c) Bill Keim, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.Xenox tigrinus by (c) Brian Gratwicke, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.Xenox tigrinus by (c) Bill Keim, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Xenox: //ˈzɛnɒks//

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Identification

Distinguished from true bees by having only one pair of wings (Diptera) versus two pairs (Hymenoptera). Distinguished from other bee fly by association with nests and specific wing patterns. Xenox tigrinus can be recognized by its dark coloration and presence near carpenter bee nesting sites on wooden structures.

Images

Appearance

have a single pair of wings characteristic of Diptera. The body is typically covered with hair, giving a -like appearance. Xenox tigrinus has distinctive dark coloration with patterned wings. The long is adapted for reaching deep into flowers to extract nectar.

Habitat

frequent meadows and areas with abundant flowers for nectar feeding. Larval is within the nests of carpenter bees, typically in wood tunnels, siding, or other wooden structures.

Distribution

occur in North America. Distribution records include Vermont and other parts of the United States. Specific range varies by species within the .

Seasonality

are active during spring and summer when flowers are abundant and are nesting. Activity coincides with the nesting period of Xylocopa bees.

Diet

feed on nectar from flowers using their long . Larvae are that consume the larvae of carpenter bees (Xylocopa spp.) and their provisions.

Host Associations

Life Cycle

Females deposit in or near nest entrances. Larvae enter the nest galleries, consume the food provisions left by the , then attach to and feed on the developing bee larvae. Development occurs entirely within the host nest.

Behavior

are agile, fast-flying often seen hovering at flowers. Females follow carpenter bees back to their nests to locate oviposition sites. Adults are and highly active, requiring substantial nectar intake to power muscles.

Ecological Role

function as while feeding on nectar. Larvae act as agents of , though they do not eliminate entirely. The relationship helps regulate populations of their carpenter bee hosts.

Human Relevance

Often noticed by homeowners due to presence near -infested structures such as decks, siding, and roof eaves. Frequently mistaken for bees or . Generally considered beneficial for pollination and natural control of carpenter bees, which can damage wooden structures.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

are frequently mistaken for bees due to their hairy bodies and flower-visiting , but they are true flies with only one pair of wings and cannot sting.

More Details

Taxonomic History

The Xenox was established by Evenhuis in 1985, though some were previously described under other names. The five described species are: X. delila, X. habrosus, X. nigritus, X. tigrinus, and X. xylocopae.

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Sources and further reading