Bombylius aurifer

Osten Sacken, 1877

Bombylius aurifer is a of bee fly in the Bombyliidae, first described by Osten Sacken in 1877. It occurs in western North America. As a member of the Bombylius, it shares the characteristic -like appearance and hovering typical of this group of flies.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Bombylius aurifer: /bɔmˈbɪliəs ˈaʊrɪfər/

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Identification

Members of the Bombylius can be distinguished from the related genus Systoechus by the location of the r-m on the wing. within Bombylius are further distinguished by coloration, pattern, and seasonal activity. Bombylius species generally tend to be active as in spring, in contrast to Systoechus species which are more active in fall.

Habitat

Found in sand prairie remnants and open sandy areas. Observed resting on sandy ground in Mississippi lowlands.

Distribution

Western North America.

Seasonality

Active as in spring.

Life Cycle

As with other Bombylius , the larval stage is presumed to be , though specific for B. aurifer have not been documented. Related species in the parasitize solitary bees.

Behavior

are skittish and difficult to approach. Has been observed hovering and resting on sandy ground.

Ecological Role

As a member of the bee fly , likely functions as a in larval stages and potentially as a flower visitor in stages.

Similar Taxa

  • Bombylius mexicanusSimilar appearance and spring activity; expert consultation required to distinguish
  • Systoechus spp.Similar bee fly , but distinguished by wing venation (r-m position) and fall activity period

More Details

Taxonomic note

Bombylius aurifer was described by Osten Sacken in 1877. Some sources list it as a synonym, though GBIF treats it as an accepted name.

Sources and further reading