Bombylius ater

Scopoli, 1763

Bombylius ater is a of bee fly in the Bombyliidae, originally described by Scopoli in 1763. The species is currently recognized as a synonym of Bombylella atra, though it was historically placed in the Bombylius. Bee flies in this group are characterized by their hairy bodies, long for nectar feeding, and parasitic larval stages. The genus Bombylius includes species that are active primarily in spring and are known for their hovering .

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Pronunciation

How to pronounce Bombylius ater: /bɔmˈbɪliːəs ˈætər/

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Distribution

Known from Belgium, specifically the Walloon Region. The has been recorded as present in these areas based on distribution data from GBIF.

Diet

feed on nectar using their elongated . Larvae are parasitic, though specific records for B. ater are not documented in the available sources.

Life Cycle

The follows the typical pattern for Bombyliidae: are deposited near or in burrows, larvae are parasitic on other insects, and occurs in soil. Specific details for B. ater are not documented.

Behavior

Members of the Bombylius are known for hovering and territorial in males. are skittish and difficult to approach. Females deposit by hovering over burrows and flicking eggs into the entrance with abdominal movements.

Ecological Role

may contribute to pollination through incidental pollen transfer on their hairy bodies. Larvae function as , potentially regulating of their .

Human Relevance

Bee flies are harmless to humans and pets. They are sometimes mistaken for bees due to their appearance, and their long may cause unfounded fear of blood-feeding. They are of interest to entomologists and photographers for their distinctive appearance and challenging .

Similar Taxa

Bombylius majorSimilar in general appearance as a fuzzy bee fly with long , but B. major is larger (12–18 mm) and has distinctive dark wing margins.
Systoechus spp.Similar body plan and appearance, but Systoechus are typically active in fall rather than spring, and differ in wing venation details such as the position of the r-m .

More Details

Taxonomic Status

Bombylius ater Scopoli, 1763 is currently treated as a synonym of Bombylella atra (Scopoli, 1763) in the Catalogue of Life and GBIF. The was originally described in Bombylius but has been transferred to Bombylella.