Taxigramma hilarella

(Zetterstedt, 1844)

Taxigramma hilarella is a of satellite fly in the Sarcophagidae, Miltogramminae. These flies are kleptoparasites that target the nests of solitary , particularly beewolves (Philanthus spp.). Females follow wasps back to their burrows and deposit larvae at the nest entrance; the larvae then enter and parasitize the wasp larvae. The species has been recorded from Scandinavia and Denmark.

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 hilarella: /ˌtæksɪˈɡræmə ˌhɪləˈrɛlə/

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Identification

Miltogrammine sarcophagids can be distinguished from other flesh flies by their reduced mouthparts and of following . Specific identification of T. hilarella likely requires examination of genitalia and comparison with related Taxigramma .

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Habitat

Associated with sandy or coarse soil where beewolves nest; found in areas with bare ground suitable for burrow excavation.

Distribution

Recorded from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

Diet

Larvae are of solitary larvae, specifically documented as of beewolf (Philanthus) larvae. feeding habits are not documented.

Host Associations

Life Cycle

Females deposit larvae at the entrance of nests; larvae crawl down the burrow and parasitize the larval wasps. Developmental details beyond this initial stage are not documented.

Behavior

Females exhibit kleptoparasitic by following female beewolves back to their nests. This satellite-following behavior allows them to locate nests without excavating or searching independently.

Ecological Role

of solitary ; acts as a control agent for beewolf wasps.

Similar Taxa

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