Zodion obliquefasciatum
(Macquart, 1846)
thick-headed fly
Zodion obliquefasciatum is a of thick-headed fly in the Conopidae. Members of the Zodion are small conopid flies, typically 5–7 millimeters in length, that parasitize solitary . Like other conopids, they are wasp mimics and frequent flowers for nectar while hunting for .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Zodion obliquefasciatum: /ˈzoʊdiɒn əˌblaɪkwiːfæsiˈeɪtəm/
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Host Associations
- solitary wasps - Members of Zodion attack solitary ; specific records for Z. obliquefasciatum are not documented in available sources
Behavior
Females accost in mid-air, forcing them to the ground and ramming an between the 's abdominal segments. The larva hatches and feeds as an internal , eventually killing the host. The larva then pupates inside the hollow of its host.
Ecological Role
Internal of solitary ; contributes to of wasp .
Similar Taxa
- Physocephala spp.Both are conopid flies and , but Physocephala are larger (12–15 mm), have elongated mimicking potter wasps, and have heavily pigmented front wing margins; Zodion species are smaller (5–7 mm) with different body proportions
- Physoconops spp.Both are conopid mimics; Physoconops resemble Physocephala in general form and are larger than Zodion species
- Zodion intermedium with similar size, , and associations; distinguished by specific morphological features not detailed in available sources
More Details
Wasp Mimicry
Conopid flies including Zodion exhibit mimicry in appearance and , which likely provides protection from despite their inability to sting.