Pterallastes thoracicus
Loew, 1863
goldenback fly, Orangeback syrphid fly
Pterallastes thoracicus is a syrphid fly commonly known as the goldenback fly or orangeback syrphid fly. It is an uncommon observed across central and eastern United States, with recent records expanding its known range into Canada. are associated with flowers, where they feed on nectar and pollen. The larvae of this species remain unknown.



Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pterallastes thoracicus: /tɛˌɹæˈlæsˌtiːz θoʊˈræːsɪkəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Distribution
Central and eastern United States; recently recorded in Canada with two new records and one previously overlooked historical record. Additional iNaturalist observations have further expanded the known distribution within the United States.
Diet
feed on nectar and pollen from flowers.
Life Cycle
Larval stage unknown.
Behavior
engage in hovering . Males perform hovering mating displays.
Ecological Role
Pollination of flowering plants.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- NCBI Taxonomy
- Catalogue of Life
- Bug Eric: City Nature Challenge 2024 Recap
- Retrachydes thoracicus – times four! | Beetles In The Bush
- Boisterous bee-havior of ground nesting bees, Colletes thoracicus — Bug of the Week
- Spring sunshine heralds the appearance of plasterer bees: Colletes — Bug of the Week
- Spring arrives and with it, delightful Plasterer bees: Colletes spp. — Bug of the Week
- Bug of the Week
- New Canadian records and range expansion for Pterallastes thoracicus Loew (Diptera: Syrphidae)