Syrphus
Syrphus
Classification
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Syrphus: //ˈsɪrfəs//
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Images
Summary
Syrphus is a genus of hoverflies characterized by long hairs on the calypter and commonly found across the New World, Eurasia, and Africa. The larvae feed on aphids, making them beneficial for biological control.
Physical Characteristics
Long hairs on the lower lobe of the calypter, often with a dull mesonotum whereas some other genera may have shiny mesonotum with whitish stripes. Larvae exhibit white, yellow/red or brown colors with 4 or 5 pairs of chevrons.
Identification Tips
Key distinguishing feature is the long hairs on the calypter, as well as the distribution of microscopic hairs on the wings.
Habitat
Common in various environments, particularly in areas populated with aphids as the larvae require these for feeding.
Distribution
New World, Eurasia, and Africa.
Diet
Larvae feed on aphids.
Life Cycle
Life cycle stages include larvae, puparium, and adult stages.
Ecosystem Role
Important pollinators; critical in controlling aphid populations as larvae feed on them.
Collecting Methods
- Netting adult flies from flowers or other resting places
- Collecting larvae from aphid infested plants
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation for larvae
- Pinning or spreading adults for taxonomic study
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Syrphus is often confused with bees due to its hoverfly nature but it does not sting and plays a different ecological role.
Tags
- hoverflies
- Syrphus
- pollinators
- insects
- larvae feeders