Criorhina nigriventris

Distinguished from other Criorhina species by the combination of bare cheeks (lacking pile) and dark ventral coloration indicated by the specific epithet 'nigriventris' (black-bellied). The genus Criorhina is characterized by robust, bumble bee-mimicking flies with broad faces and stocky bodies. Accurate identification to species level requires examination of facial pile patterns and abdominal coloration.

Associated with forested environments where decaying wood is available for larval development. Adults frequent flowering plants in woodland edges and openings.

Northern United States, southern Canada, and the Appalachian Mountains. Specific records include Vermont.

Adults feed on nectar and pollen from flowers. Larval diet unknown but genus-level larvae develop in decaying wood, likely feeding on decaying plant matter or associated microorganisms.

Larvae develop in decaying wood. Adults emerge and visit flowers. Specific details on pupation site and adult longevity are not documented.

Adults have been observed visiting flowers. Like other hoverflies, capable of nearly motionless hovering flight.

Adults contribute to pollination through flower visitation. Larvae participate in wood decomposition processes.

• Other Criorhina speciesShare bumble bee mimicry and general body form; distinguished by facial pile patterns and abdominal coloration, particularly the bare cheeks and dark venter of C. nigriventris
• Bombus species (bumble bees)Visual mimicry; distinguished by single pair of wings, short antennae, and large compound eyes meeting at top of head in flies versus two pairs of wings, longer antennae, and separated eyes in bees

• hoverfly
• syrphid
• bumble bee mimic
• saproxylic
• flower visitor
• North America
• uncommon

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life
• Publications | Entomology Research Museum