Eristalis dimidiata

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Family: Syrphidae
Subfamily: Eristalinae
Tribe: Eristalini
Subtribe: Eristalina
Genus: Eristalis
Species: dimidiata

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Eristalis dimidiata: /ɛrɪˈstalɪs daɪmɪˈdɪɑːtə/

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Summary

Eristalis dimidiata, or the black-shouldered drone fly, is a species of hoverfly native to much of Canada and the eastern and northern United States. It exhibits a distinctive appearance and a vital role in pollination.

Physical Characteristics

10-14 mm in length; wings clear or slightly darkened; black antennae, thorax, facial stripes, and cheeks; dense, short, whitish hairs on thorax; dark abdomen with whitish rings and incomplete yellow bands on tergum 2 and/or 3; basal half of tibiae pale whitish, sharply demarcated.

Identification Tips

Look for clear wings and distinctive black and white markings on the abdomen and thorax, as well as the black facial stripes.

Habitat

Primarily found in forests.

Distribution

Much of Canada and the eastern and northern United States.

Diet

Adults feed on nectar and pollen from flowers; larvae are aquatic filter-feeders of the rat-tailed type.

Life Cycle

Adults are one of the earliest hoverflies to emerge in spring and may overwinter as adults.

Ecosystem Role

Pollinators, as they visit flowers to feed on nectar and pollen.