Taxigramma

Perris, 1852

satellite flies

Species Guides

Taxigramma is a of satellite flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae: Miltogramminae) comprising approximately 18 described globally. Eight species are documented from China, with recent taxonomic work clarifying their distributions and providing first records for several species. Members of this genus are kleptoparasites that exploit other insects, particularly bees.

Taxigramma heteroneura by (c) Michael Knapp, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Michael Knapp. Used under a CC-BY license.

Taxigramma hilarella by (c) Even Dankowicz, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Even Dankowicz. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Taxigramma: /ˌtæksiˈɡræmə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Habitat

In China, found in ecologically distinctive zones including the Turpan-Hami Basin, Karamaili Mountain Ungulate Nature Reserve, and border areas. Taxigramma albina has been recorded from psammophilous and near water sources in Kalamaili.

Distribution

China: Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (Altay, Gaochang, Yiwu, Baicheng, Akto, Taxkorgan, Yecheng, Qiemo, Jeminay, Alashankou, Huocheng, Jimsar), Neimenggu (Erenhot, Urad Rear Banner), Sichuan (Panzhihua), Hainan (Yinggeling). Also recorded from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

Host Associations

Apoidea - kleptoparasiteexplicitly documented for T. albina; multiple within superfamily targeted

Behavior

Kleptoparasitism: females exploit nests to deposit , with larvae feeding on host provisions.