Eristalina

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Eristalina: /ˌɛrɪˈstɑːlɪnə/

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Summary

Eristalina is a diverse subtribe of hoverflies known for their unique larval forms and their role in ecosystems as pollinators.

Physical Characteristics

Larvae have a distinct posterior breathing tube; adults possess a robust, often bee-like appearance.

Identification Tips

Look for bee mimetic patterns in adult forms and the rat-tailed maggot form of the larvae.

Habitat

Larvae are found in aquatic environments and moist organic matter.

Distribution

Widespread across various habitats, especially in wet and damp areas.

Diet

Adult hoverflies are pollinators, feeding primarily on nectar and pollen; larvae feed on organic materials in aquatic environments.

Life Cycle

Eggs laid in aquatic environments or damp soil; larvae develop in water or moist organic material.

Reproduction

Typically involves the female laying eggs in suitable habitats, where larvae emerge and develop.

Predators

Predators include various insectivorous animals such as birds and other predatory insects.

Ecosystem Role

Important pollinators in ecosystems, contributing to plant reproduction.

Economic Impact

Hoverflies are beneficial for agriculture as pollinators; larvae may help in decomposing organic matter.

Collecting Methods

• Netting adults during warm months
• Sampling larvae from water sources

Preservation Methods

• Pinning adults
• Preserving larvae in ethanol

Similar Taxa

• Other subtribes of syrphidae
• Bumblebees (due to mimicry behavior)

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for harmful bees, despite being harmless hoverflies.

Tags

• hoverflies
• Eristalina
• pollinators
• larvae