Eupeodes
Eupeodes
Classification
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eupeodes: //juːˈpiː.əˌdiːz//
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Images
Summary
Eupeodes, commonly known as aphideater flies, are moderate-sized hoverflies belonging to the family Syrphidae. They are characterized by their black bodies accented with yellow markings and play a beneficial role in controlling aphid populations in various ecosystems.
Physical Characteristics
6–14 mm in length, black with yellow markings, eyes usually hairless or sparsely haired, face generally yellow with a brown median stripe, shining black scutum, dull yellow translucent scutellum, oval abdomen with strong margins, tergite 2 typically has yellow spots, legs slender with unarmed hind femur.
Identification Tips
Distinct from Syrphus by the margined abdomen and the absence of long hairs on the lower lobe of the calypter. Yellow markings in Eupeodes do not reach the edge of the abdominal tergites, unlike Epistrophe which usually does.
Habitat
Cosmopolitan; found throughout North America.
Distribution
Worldwide, particularly throughout North America.
Diet
Larvae feed primarily on aphids and occasionally other food sources. Adults feed on nectar and pollen.
Life Cycle
Adults hover over plants to feed on nectar, while larvae typically feed on aphids.
Ecosystem Role
As a predator of aphids, Eupeodes play an important role in controlling aphid populations in their ecosystems.
Economic Impact
Potentially beneficial due to their predation on aphids, which are agricultural pests.
Collecting Methods
- Netting adults while they are feeding on flowers
- Collecting larvae from aphid-infested plants
Preservation Methods
- Pinning adults for taxonomic studies
- Preserving in ethanol for genetic analysis
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
May be confused with other similar genera in the Syrphini tribe due to overlapping morphological features.
Tags
- hoverfly
- Eupeodes
- Syrphidae
- predatory larvae
- pollinators