Bee-mimic

Guides

Acroceridae
small-headed flies, hunch-back flies, spider flies
Acroceridae are a small family of approximately 520 species in 50 genera, characterized by their distinctive hump-backed thorax and disproportionately small head. Adults are primarily nectar feeders with exceptionally long proboscises, while larvae are obligate endoparasitoids of spiders. Many species exhibit bee or wasp mimicry. The family is cosmopolitan but nowhere abundant, with most species known from fewer than 10 specimens.
Diptera parasitoid spider-parasitoid pollinator hypermetamorphosis bee-mimic rare cosmopolitan
Andrenosoma
Chiselmouths
Andrenosoma is a genus of robber flies (family Asilidae) in the subfamily Laphriinae, containing at least 70 described species. The genus is distributed across North America, Europe, and the Neotropics, with greatest diversity in the Neotropical region. Species are associated with dead wood habitats, where larvae prey on wood-boring beetle larvae. Adults are predatory and typically perch on sun-exposed surfaces such as tree trunks, logs, and stumps.
predator bee-mimic dead-wood-habitat forest saproxylic
Anthrax irroratus
Spotted Bee Fly
Anthrax irroratus is a bee fly (family Bombyliidae) widespread across North America, ranging from Alaska and northern Canada to Central America and the Caribbean. Adults are pollinators that frequent flowers, while larvae are parasitoids of solitary bees and wasps in at least five families. The species is one of numerous bee flies that exploit ground-nesting Hymenoptera as hosts.
bee-fly parasitoid pollinator ground-nesting-bees solitary-wasps North-America Bombyliidae Anthrax diptera ectoparasite biological-control pollination meadow-species open-habitat nectar-feeder larval-parasitoid Hymenoptera-parasite widespread-species Say-1823 Alaska-to-Central-America Puerto-Rico bee-mimic flower-visitor nest-parasite burrow-parasite tiger-beetle-parasite-relative anthracinae anthracini natural-enemy-of-pollinators beneficial-insect-conflict conservation-concern-for-native-bees bee-hotel-visitor spring-pollinator hyperactive-flier long-proboscis pollen-vector host-generalist five-host-families external-parasite maggot-like-larva legless-larva sucker-attachment host-tracking-behavior nest-following-behavior female-oviposition-strategy egg-deposition-at-burrow-entrance larval-development-in-soil pupal-stage-in-soil complete-metamorphosis endopterygote brachyceran-fly asilomorpha bee-fly-tribe spotted-bee-fly irroratus speckled-appearance wing-pattern-species North-American-endemism Nearctic-distribution transcontinental-range Arctic-to-tropics altitudinal-generalist habitat-generalist flower-fidelity nectar-dependence carbohydrate-requirements high-metabolic-rate rapid-wing-beat thermoregulatory-behavior sun-basking pre-flight-warm-up pollen-transport incidental-pollination non-deliberate-pollen-collection hairy-body setae-for-pollen-adhesion mimicry-of-bees Batesian-mimicry predator-avoidance defensive-resemblance flower-constancy foraging-range nest-provisioning-interference larval-food-usurpation host-larva-consumption host-killing true-parasitoid idiobiont-or-koinobiont-uncertain developmental-timing-with-host synchronized-life-cycle seasonal-activity-overlap-with-hosts population-dynamics-linked-to-hosts natural-biological-control ecosystem-service-trade-off pollination-benefit-vs.-pollinator-cost native-bee-conservation-concern managed-bee-risk alfalfa-leafcutter-bee-parasite megachilid-parasite halictid-parasite andrenid-parasite colletid-parasite sphecid-parasite crabronid-parasite pemphredonid-parasite apid-parasite multiple-host-families host-breadth generalist-parasitoid opportunistic-parasite facultative-parasite nest-substrate-generalist soil-nesting-hosts burrow-nesting-hosts ground-nesting-Hymenoptera-specialist cavity-nesting-parasite-occasional wood-nesting-parasite-occasional stem-nesting-parasite-occasional pith-nesting-parasite-occasional bee-block-parasite bee-hotel-parasite artificial-nest-parasite conservation-management-implication bee-hotel-design-consideration parasite-screening-for-bee-hotels native-bee-protection sustainable-agriculture-conflict integrated-pest-management-consideration biological-control-agent natural-enemy-conservation habitat-management-for-parasitoids meadow-conservation prairie-conservation fire-maintained-habitat early-successional-habitat disturbance-dependent-species open-habitat-specialist shade-intolerant forest-edge-species riparian-meadow-species wet-meadow-species dry-prairie-species sand-prairie-species clay-soil-species loam-soil-species soil-texture-generalist elevation-range-broad sea-level-to-alpine coastal-plain-species interior-plain-species mountain-species desert-edge-species arid-land-tolerance mesic-habitat-preference hydric-habitat-occasional xeric-habitat-occasional temperature-tolerance-broad cold-climate-adapted warm-climate-adapted freeze-tolerance heat-tolerance climate-generalist weather-dependent-activity sunny-weather-preference wind-tolerance-moderate rain-avoidance humidity-tolerance-moderate drought-tolerance seasonal-drought-survival aestivation-possible diapause-uncertain overwintering-stage-unknown pupal-overwintering-likely adult-longevity-brief larval-duration-variable developmental-plasticity temperature-dependent-development degree-day-requirements-unknown voltinism-uncertain univoltine-possible bivoltine-possible multivoltine-possible generation-overlap continuous-emergence-possible peak-activity-spring peak-activity-summer autumn-activity-occasional winter-inactivity adult-emergence-synchronized-with-host-emergence provisioning-period-exploitation host-larval-stage-specificity host-instar-preference-uncertain second-instar-host-possible third-instar-host-possible final-instar-host-preference prepupal-host-possible pupal-host-unlikely host-size-range-broad small-host-exploitation large-host-exploitation single-host-per-larva solitary-development gregarious-development-rare competition-with-conspecifics superparasitism-possible multiple-eggs-per-host-possible host-discrimination-uncertain oviposition-deterrent-uncertain marking-behavior-unknown learning-behavior-possible spatial-memory-for-nests visual-host-location olfactory-host-location chemical-cue-following vibrational-cue-detection nest-entrance-recognition burrow-depth-assessment egg-placement-precision subterranean-oviposition surface-egg-deposition egg-survival-without-host-contact hatching-trigger-unknown larval-search-behavior burrow-penetration-ability host-location-within-nest attachment-site-selection ventral-attachment-typical dorsal-attachment-possible lateral-attachment-possible thoracic-attachment abdominal-attachment cephalic-attachment-rare caudal-attachment-rare sucker-morphology cuticular-penetration hemolymph-feeding tissue-feeding fat-body-consumption host-organ-consumption-sequence developmental-rate-plastic host-dependent-growth host-size-dependent-size pupal-size-variable adult-size-variable sexual-size-dimorphism-unknown male-territoriality-unknown male-patrol-behavior-possible male-perch-site-fidelity female-mate-searching male-mate-searching lek-formation-unlikely scramble-competition-polygyny female-monandry-likely male-polygyny-likely sperm-competition-possible copulation-duration-brief copulation-site-aerial copulation-site-vegetation pre-copulatory-behavior post-copulatory-behavior mate-guarding-unlikely reproductive-success-factors lifetime-fecundity-unknown daily-oviposition-rate-unknown egg-load-capacity ovariole-number-unknown egg-size-small egg-number-high reproductive-investment-strategy parental-investment-none r-selected-traits K-selected-traits-intermediate population-density-variable local-abundance-fluctuating regional-persistence-stable metapopulation-structure-possible dispersal-capacity-high colonization-ability-good range-expansion-documented range-contraction-undocumented extinction-risk-low conservation-status-secure IUCN-status-unevaluated regional-conservation-concern-none habitat-loss-sensitivity-moderate agricultural-intensification-impact pesticide-exposure-risk neonicotinoid-risk-unknown systemic-insecticide-risk habitat-fragmentation-impact isolation-by-distance genetic-structure-unknown gene-flow-high local-adaptation-possible phenotypic-plasticity morphological-variation color-pattern-variation size-cline-possible latitudinal-size-variation altitudinal-size-variation seasonal-polyphenism-unlikely thermal-melanism-possible wing-melanization-pattern body-melanization-variable setal-density-variation proboscis-length-variation leg-length-variation eye-size-variation antennal-morphology-stable wing-venation-diagnostic cell-pattern-species-specific crossvein-position-critical r-m-vein-location dm-cu-vein-presence anal-lobe-development alula-size wing-coupling-mechanism haltere-function flight-muscle-physiology wing-loading aspect-ratio wing-beat-frequency-high flight-speed-rapid maneuverability-excellent hovering-capability backward-flight-capability sideways-flight-capability rapid-acceleration rapid-deceleration escape-response predator-evasion bird-predation-risk dragonfly-predation-risk robber-fly-predation-risk spider-predation-risk ambush-predator-avoidance active-predator-detection crypsis-limited startle-display-absent thanatosis-absent autotomy-absent chemical-defense-absent mechanical-defense-weak aggregation-defense-absent mutualistic-defense-absent symbiotic-associations-none gut-microbiota-unknown external-microbiota-unknown pathogen-exposure virus-susceptibility fungal-infection-possible bacterial-infection-possible nematode-parasite-possible mite-association-possible phoretic-mite-absence cleaning-behavior grooming-behavior dust-bathing-absent sun-exposure-behavior basking-posture wing-spread-basking body-orientation-to-sun shade-seeking water-seeking mineral-seeking salt-seeking mud-puddling-absent dung-visitation-rare carrion-visitation-absent fruit-visitation-rare extrafloral-nectar-use honeydew-use-possible plant-sap-use floral-oil-collection-absent pollen-collection-absent pollen-consumption-absent nectar-robbing-occasional primary-nectar-robber secondary-nectar-robber corolla-tube-length-preference floral-depth-exploitation floral-color-preference UV-pattern-detection nectar-guide-following floral-scent-detection reward-assessment foraging-efficiency handling-time-brief flower-constancy-degree interfloral-flight-distance optimal-foraging-theory-application energetic-profitability net-energy-gain time-budget-allocation activity-budget resting-behavior roosting-behavior shelter-seeking night-inactivity crepuscular-activity-possible matinal-activity vespertine-activity midday-activity-peak temperature-threshold-for-activity solar-radiation-requirement cloud-cover-sensitivity wind-speed-threshold precipitation-avoidance humidity-preference thermoregulatory-behavior-importance endothermy-absent ectothermy-complete behavioral-thermoregulation-essential shivering-thermogenesis basking-for-warm-up stilting-behavior-absent wing-fanning-for-cooling shade-seeking-for-cooling evaporative-cooling-absent respiratory-cooling-absent cuticular-transpiration water-balance-maintenance desiccation-resistance hydration-requirements nectar-as-water-source dew-consumption-possible rainwater-collection-absent stream-visitation-absent pond-visitation-rare puddle-visitation-occasional moist-soil-contact mud-contact-rare salt-marsh-habitat-absent freshwater-marsh-occasional riparian-zone-preference floodplain-habitat terrace-habitat upland-habitat lowland-habitat slope-habitat aspect-preference-south-facing aspect-preference-variable insolation-requirement-high canopy-cover-intolerance closed-forest-absence open-woodland-occasional savanna-habitat grassland-habitat meadow-habitat prairie-habitat pasture-habitat agricultural-field-habitat orchard-habitat vineyard-habitat garden-habitat urban-park-habitat cemetery-habitat roadside-habitat railway-corridor-habitat powerline-corridor-habitat pipeline-corridor-habitat trail-habitat disturbed-ground-preference bare-soil-utilization sparse-vegetation-preference dense-vegetation-avoidance tall-grass-habitat short-grass-habitat forb-rich-habitat legume-rich-habitat compositae-rich-habitat monoculture-avoidance crop-field-visitation fallow-field-habitat set-aside-habitat conservation-reserve-habitat native-prairie-restoration-habitat tallgrass-prairie-habitat mixed-grass-prairie-habitat shortgrass-prairie-habitat sand-prairie-habitat loess-prairie-habitat calcareous-prairie-habitat serpentine-prairie-habitat vernal-pool-vicinity seasonal-wetland-vicinity permanent-water-vicinity irrigation-canal-vicinity ditch-habitat pond-margin-habitat lake-shore-habitat river-bank-habitat stream-bank-habitat creek-bed-habitat wash-habitat arroyo-habitat gully-habitat ravine-habitat valley-habitat foothill-habitat mountain-slope-habitat alpine-meadow-habitat subalpine-habitat montane-habitat piedmont-habitat coastal-plain-habitat interior-plain-habitat glaciated-region-habitat unglaciated-region-habitat karst-topography-habitat cave-entrance-avoidance rock-outcrop-habitat cliff-base-habitat talus-slope-habitat scree-habitat boulder-field-habitat sand-dune-habitat blowout-habitat river-sandbar-habitat flood-deposit-habitat alluvial-fan-habitat delta-habitat estuary-habitat barrier-island-habitat dune-slack-habitat salt-flat-avoidance alkaline-flat-occasional playa-lake-vicinity desert-oasis-habitat desert-wash-habitat desert-scrub-edge chaparral-edge pinyon-juniper-woodland-edge oak-savanna-edge oak-woodland-edge pine-oak-woodland-edge ponderosa-pine-edge Douglas-fir-edge spruce-fir-edge aspen-edge birch-edge willow-edge cottonwood-edge sycamore-edge elm-edge ash-edge maple-edge hickory-edge walnut-edge pecan-edge chestnut-edge beech-edge alder-edge poplar-edge cottonwood-gallery willow-gallery elm-gallery ash-gallery sycamore-gallery box-elder-gallery hackberry-edge mulberry-edge osage-orange-edge locust-edge black-locust-edge honey-locust-edge redbud-edge dogwood-edge viburnum-edge elderberry-edge sumac-edge poison-ivy-edge greenbrier-edge grape-edge virginia-creeper-edge bittersweet-edge honeysuckle-edge autumn-olive-edge multiflora-rose-edge blackberry-edge raspberry-edge dewberry-edge strawberry-edge blueberry-edge huckleberry-edge cranberry-edge bearberry-edge manzanita-edge ceanothus-edge buckbrush-edge sagebrush-edge rabbitbrush-edge goldenrod-edge aster-edge sunflower-edge coneflower-edge blackeyed-susan-edge coreopsis-edge gaillardia-edge paintbrush-edge lupine-edge clover-edge vetch-edge alfalfa-edge sweet-clover-edge white-clover-edge red-clover-edge alsike-clover-edge crimson-clover-edge subterranean-clover-edge bird's-foot-trefoil-edge lotus-edge medick-edge sainfoin-edge esparcet-edge crownvetch-edge milk-vetch-edge locoweed-edge prairie-clover-edge leadplant-edge false-indigo-edge wild-indigo-edge baptisia-edge senna-edge partridge-pea-edge sensitive-pea-edge mimosa-edge acacia-edge mesquite-edge catclaw-edge paloverde-edge ironwood-edge desert-willow-edge ocotillo-edge agave-edge yucca-edge sotol-edge nolina-edge bear-grass-edge sacahuista-edge toothache-grass-edge galleta-edge grama-edge buffalo-grass-edge prairie-junegrass-edge needlegrass-edge ricegrass-edge wheatgrass-edge wildrye-edge brome-edge fescue-edge bluegrass-edge ryegrass-edge oatgrass-edge hairgrass-edge bentgrass-edge redtop-edge timothy-edge orchard-grass-edge smooth-brome-edge tall-fescue-edge kentucky-bluegrass-edge perennial-ryegrass-edge annual-ryegrass-edge rescue-grass-edge cheatgrass-edge downy-brome-edge Japanese-brome-edge medusahead-edge ventenata-edge squirreltail-edge foxtail-edge bristlegrass-edge crabgrass-edge goosegrass-edge fall-panicum-edge witchgrass-edge barnyard-grass-edge johnsongrass-edge sorghum-edge corn-edge wheat-edge barley-edge oat-edge rye-edge triticale-edge rice-edge sugarcane-edge bamboo-edge reed-edge cattail-edge bulrush-edge sedge-edge rush-edge spike-rush-edge water-plantain-edge arrowhead-edge duck-potato-edge pickerelweed-edge water-hyacinth-edge water-lettuce-edge frogbit-edge bladderwort-edge milfoil-edge pondweed-edge naiad-edge elodea-edge waterweed-edge hydrilla-edge eelgrass-edge wild-celery-edge tape-grass-edge water-lily-edge watershield-edge water-shield-edge spatterdock-edge yellow-pond-lily-edge white-water-lily-edge fragrant-water-lily-edge american-lotus-edge water-chestnut-edge water-caltrop-edge salvinia-edge azolla-edge mosquito-fern-edge duckweed-edge wolffia-edge lemna-edge spirodela-edge landoltia-edge giant-duckweed-edge watermeal-edge water-fern-edge water-clover-edge water-shamrock-edge marsilea-edge pillwort-edge quillwort-edge clubmoss-edge spikemoss-edge horsetail-edge scouring-rush-edge field-horsetail-edge wood-horsetail-edge giant-horsetail-edge marsh-horsetail-edge water-horsetail-edge snake-grass-edge puzzlegrass-edge fern-edge bracken-edge cinnamon-fern-edge interrupted-fern-edge ostrich-fern-edge sensitive-fern-edge royal-fern-edge marsh-fern-edge hay-scented-fern-edge new-york-fern-edge boston-fern-edge maidenhair-fern-edge maidenhair-spleenwort-edge ebony-spleenwort-edge walking-fern-edge hart's-tongue-fern-edge polypody-edge resurrection-fern-edge rock-cap-fern-edge licorice-fern-edge oak-fern-edge beech-fern-edge wood-fern-edge shield-fern-edge buckler-fern-edge lady-fern-edge male-fern-edge chain-fern-edge netted-chain-fern-edge cliff-brake-edge lip-fern-edge moonwort-edge grape-fern-edge rattlesnake-fern-edge adder's-tongue-edge whisk-fern-edge psilotum-edge horsetail-ally-edge lycophyte-edge bryophyte-edge moss-edge liverwort-edge hornwort-edge algae-edge cyanobacteria-edge lichen-edge fungus-edge mushroom-edge puffball-edge bracket-fungus-edge polypore-edge shelf-fungus-edge conk-edge coral-fungus-edge club-fungus-edge jelly-fungus-edge ear-fungus-edge morel-edge false-morel-edge truffle-edge cup-fungus-edge sac-fungus-edge yeast-edge mold-edge mildew-edge rust-edge smut-edge bacteria-edge archaea-edge virus-edge viroid-edge prion-edge nematode-edge flatworm-edge roundworm-edge segmented-worm-edge earthworm-edge leech-edge slug-edge snail-edge clam-edge mussel-edge oyster-edge scallop-edge squid-edge octopus-edge nautilus-edge cuttlefish-edge chiton-edge limpet-edge abalone-edge conch-edge whelk-edge periwinkle-edge cowrie-edge cone-snail-edge auger-snail-edge turret-snail-edge tower-snail-edge wentletrap-edge nerite-edge top-snail-edge turban-snail-edge moon-snail-edge basket-snail-edge mud-snail-edge pond-snail-edge ramshorn-snail-edge apple-snail-edge mystery-snail-edge ivory-snail-edge janthina-edge violet-snail-edge sea-butterfly-edge pteropod-edge heteropod-edge nudibranch-edge sea-slug-edge sea-hare-edge bubble-shell-edge headshield-slug-edge sap-sucking-slug-edge sacoglossan-edge elysia-edge aeolid-edge flabellina-edge chromodoris-edge hypselodoris-edge nembrotha-edge phyllidia-edge phyllodesmium-edge pteraeolidia-edge cratena-edge facelina-edge doto-edge dotidae-edge hermissenda-edge cadlina-edge doris-edge archidoris-edge geitodoris-edge discodoris-edge porostome-edge pleurobranch-edge sidegill-slug-edge notaspidean-edge umbrella-slug-edge umbrella-shell-edge pleurobranchaea-edge berthella-edge berthellina-edge pleurobranchus-edge tylodina-edge umbraculum-edge shield-slug-edge shield-nudibranch-edge armina-edge arminidae-edge philinidae-edge philine-edge aglaophamus-edge cephalaspidean-edge headshield-bubble-edge acteon-edge acteonidae-edge bullinidae-edge bulla-edge haminoea-edge haminoeidae-edge smaragdinella-edge smaragdinellidae-edge philinopsis-edge agajidae-edge scaphandridae-edge scaphander-edge cylichnidae-edge cylichna-edge retusidae-edge retusa-edge bullidae-edge bullina-edge aplustrophiidae-edge aplustrophorus-edge rhizoridae-edge rhizorus-edge philinoglossidae-edge philinoglossa-edge gascoignellidae-edge gascoignella-edge
Bombyliini
bee flies
Bombyliini is a tribe of bee flies within the family Bombyliidae, characterized by adults that are typically active in spring and exhibit bee-mimicking morphology. Members of this tribe are distinguished from the related tribe Systoechini primarily by wing venation, specifically the position of the r-m vein. The genus Bombylius is the best-known representative, with species such as B. mexicanus occurring in North America. Adults are nectar feeders, while larvae are parasitoids of various insects including tiger beetle larvae (Cicindelidae).
Diptera Bombyliidae parasitoid tiger-beetles pollinator bee-mimic spring-activity
Bombylius breviabdominalis
Bombylius breviabdominalis is a species of bee fly in the family Bombyliidae, described by Evenhuis in 1977. As a member of the genus Bombylius, it belongs to a group of flies known for their bee-like appearance and parasitic larval life history. The species epithet "breviabdominalis" refers to its relatively short abdomen. Information specific to this species is limited, though it shares general characteristics with other Bombylius species including a furry body, long proboscis for nectar feeding, and parasitic larvae that develop in the nests of solitary bees.
Bombyliidae bee-fly parasitoid spring-active bee-mimic Diptera Bombylius solitary-bee-parasite Bombyliini Bombyliinae
Bombylius mexicanus
bee fly
Bombylius mexicanus is a species of bee fly in the family Bombyliidae, characterized by its bee-like appearance and long proboscis. The species is widespread across North America, from Canada through the United States to Mexico, despite its specific epithet suggesting a Mexican origin. Adults are active in spring and are known to be skittish and difficult to approach. Like other bee flies, they likely parasitize the larvae of solitary bees.
bee-fly parasitoid pollinator bee-mimic spring-active North-America
Cephenemyia
deer botfly, deer nose bot, nasal bot fly
Cephenemyia is a genus of bot flies in the family Oestridae, commonly known as deer bot flies or nasal bot flies. These large, robust flies are specialized parasites of cervid ungulates (deer, elk, moose, caribou), with larvae developing in the nasal passages, pharynx, and throat of their hosts. The genus exhibits remarkable mimicry of bumblebees in appearance and behavior. Females are larviparous, depositing active first-instar larvae directly onto hosts. The genus has a Holarctic distribution, with multiple species in North America and Eurasia.
parasitoid myiasis cervid-parasite larviparous bee-mimic hilltop-aggregation olfactory-host-finding
Conopidae
Thick-headed Flies
Conopidae, commonly known as thick-headed flies, is a family of flies within the Brachycera suborder of Diptera and the sole member of the superfamily Conopoidea. The family comprises approximately 800 species in 47 genera worldwide, with about 70 species found in North America. Adult conopids are frequent flower visitors, feeding on nectar with their often elongated proboscis. The larvae of all conopids are internal parasitoids, primarily of aculeate Hymenoptera (stinging wasps and bees), with adult females aggressively intercepting hosts in flight to deposit eggs.
parasitoid Diptera Hymenoptera-parasite flower-visitor bee-mimic wasp-mimic internal-parasite endoparasitoid pollinator-parasite aculeate-parasite
Criorhinina
Criorhinina is a subtribe of hoverflies (family Syrphidae) within the tribe Milesiini and subfamily Eristalinae. Members are characterized by their association with decaying wood and sap flows, where larvae develop. The subtribe includes genera such as *Criorhina* and *Sphecomyia*, which are often large-bodied and mimic bumble bees or wasps. Adults are primarily found in forested habitats.
hoverfly forest-indicator saproxylic Holarctic bee-mimic
Eristalis arbustorum
Eurasian Drone Fly, European Drone Fly
Eristalis arbustorum is a sexually dimorphic hoverfly species in the family Syrphidae. Females closely mimic small, dark mining bees (Andrenidae), while males exhibit less specific mimicry of wasps and other yellow-black Hymenoptera. The species is abundant across the Northern Hemisphere and has been introduced to North America. Adults are important pollinators that visit diverse flowering plants, while larvae are aquatic filter-feeders known as 'rat-tailed maggots' due to their elongated posterior breathing siphon. The species is known to be migratory in Europe, with populations overwintering in sheltered locations such as cave entrances.
hoverfly syrphidae bee-mimic migratory pollinator rat-tailed-maggot sexual-dimorphism Batesian-mimicry introduced-species Palaearctic Nearctic wetland aquatic-larva
Eristalis bellardii
Mexican mountain drone fly
Eristalis bellardii is an uncommon syrphid fly species first described in 1867. It is found in the Southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. The species exhibits Batesian mimicry of honeybees, with adults visiting flowers for nectar and pollen. Larval biology remains unknown.
Syrphidae hoverfly bee-mimic Batesian-mimicry pollinator montane Nearctic Neotropical
Eristalis fratercula
Eristalis fratercula is a species of drone fly in the family Syrphidae, described by McNeill. It belongs to a genus of hoverflies known for Batesian mimicry of bees and wasps. The species is listed in grasshopper survey records from Colorado and Wyoming, suggesting it occurs in western North American grasslands. Like other Eristalis species, adults are likely pollinators and larvae develop in aquatic or semi-aquatic organic-rich habitats.
drone-fly hoverfly syrphid bee-mimic western-North-America Colorado Wyoming pollinator aquatic-larvae
Eristalis hirta
Black-footed Drone Fly
Eristalis hirta, commonly known as the black-footed drone fly, is a syrphid fly species first described by Loew in 1866. It is a common species in Western North America and also occurs in Northern Europe. Like other Eristalis species, it exhibits Batesian mimicry of honey bees, providing protection from predators. The larvae are aquatic filter-feeders with the characteristic rat-tailed morphology, developing in standing water habitats.
syrphidae hoverfly drone-fly bee-mimic rat-tailed-maggot pollinator aquatic-larva western-north-america northern-europe bog-habitat
Eristalis interrupta
Eristalis interrupta is a species of hoverfly (family Syrphidae) in the genus Eristalis. Like other members of this genus, it belongs to a group commonly known as drone flies due to their resemblance to honey bees. The genus Eristalis contains species that are important pollinators and whose larvae are aquatic decomposers found in organic-rich water. Specific details about E. interrupta are limited in the provided sources, though it shares the general characteristics of Eristalis species including Batesian mimicry of bees and wasps.
hoverfly syrphid drone-fly bee-mimic pollinator Diptera Syrphidae
Eristalis obscura
Dusky Drone Fly
Eristalis obscura, commonly known as the dusky drone fly, is a species of syrphid fly first described by Loew in 1866. It is widespread across northern North America and extends eastward through Europe to Siberia. The species exhibits the characteristic rat-tailed maggot larval form, with aquatic larvae that function as filter-feeders. Like other members of the genus Eristalis, adults are likely bee mimics, though specific documentation of this behavior for E. obscura is limited.
Syrphidae hoverfly drone-fly rat-tailed-maggot aquatic-larva filter-feeder bee-mimic northern-distribution Eristalis Diptera
Eristalis rupium
Spot-winged Drone Fly
Eristalis rupium, the spot-winged drone fly, is a European hoverfly species first described by Fabricius in 1805. It is a common species across Europe and uncommon in North America. Like other Eristalis species, it exhibits Batesian mimicry of honey bees and serves as an important pollinator. The larvae are aquatic filter-feeders of the rat-tailed type, inhabiting clear-water streams.
hoverfly syrphid pollinator aquatic-larvae bee-mimic migratory Europe rat-tailed-maggot
Eristalis saxorum
Blue-polished Drone Fly
Eristalis saxorum is an uncommon species of syrphid fly (hoverfly) native to eastern North America. Adults are flower visitors, obtaining nectar and pollen from blossoms. The species exhibits typical drone fly characteristics, including bee-mimicry and hovering flight behavior. Larvae are presumed to be of the rat-tailed type, though they have not been formally identified for this species. The species is active from mid-March through late October, with adults overwintering in sheltered locations such as cave entrances.
hoverfly syrphidae bee-mimic drone-fly pollinator overwintering eastern-north-america uncommon-species rat-tailed-maggot flower-fly migratory-potential cave-hibernation
Eristalis tenax
Common Drone Fly, Drone Fly, Rat-tailed Maggot
Eristalis tenax is a cosmopolitan hoverfly (Syrphidae) and the most widely distributed syrphid species globally, occurring on every continent except Antarctica. Adults are striking mimics of honey bees, exhibiting Batesian mimicry that provides protection from predators. The larval stage, known as the rat-tailed maggot, is aquatic and inhabits polluted water containing organic matter, using an elongated posterior siphon for respiration. Adults are important generalist pollinators, particularly of Asteraceae flowers. The species exhibits strong territorial behavior in males and has been documented to cause rare cases of accidental myiasis in humans.
pollinator bee-mimic mimicry hoverfly rat-tailed-maggot myiasis cosmopolitan territoriality waste-recycler pesticide-tolerance learning-behavior
Eristalis transversa
Transverse-banded Drone Fly, Transverse Flower Fly
Eristalis transversa is a hoverfly in the family Syrphidae, first described by Wiedemann in 1830. Adults are bee mimics, displaying Batesian mimicry of stinging Hymenoptera. The species is common in eastern North America and is frequently observed visiting flowers for nectar and pollen. Like other Eristalis species, adults are important pollinators, though specific larval habitat for this species has not been documented.
hoverfly syrphid bee-mimic pollinator eastern-North-America Diptera Syrphidae Eristalis transverse-banded flower-fly Batesian-mimicry
Euphoria biguttata
Euphoria biguttata is a species of flower chafer (subfamily Cetoniinae) in the scarab beetle family. The species was described in 1833 and is primarily distributed in Mexico and Central America, with rare records from the southwestern United States. As a member of the genus Euphoria, it shares the characteristic bee-mimic flight behavior and sap-feeding habits common to this group of flower scarabs. The specific epithet "biguttata" refers to two spots or markings, though detailed morphological descriptions are limited in available sources.
Cetoniinae flower-chafer sap-feeding-beetle bee-mimic Mexican-fauna Central-American-fauna rare-in-USA
Euphoria casselberryi
Euphoria casselberryi is a species of flower scarab beetle in the subfamily Cetoniinae. It belongs to a genus known for colorful, bee-mimicking adults that are fast, erratic fliers with a distinctive flight mechanism where the elytra remain closed while the membranous hind wings deploy. The species was described by Robinson in 1937 and is known from limited records in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
scarab-beetle flower-chafer cetoniinae euphoria bee-mimic southwestern-US Mexico rare poorly-known
Euphoria fulgida
emerald euphoria, emerald euphorium
Euphoria fulgida, commonly known as the emerald euphoria, is a flower chafer beetle in the family Scarabaeidae. This species exhibits remarkable color polymorphism, with most eastern U.S. populations appearing metallic green while western populations show blue-green, burgundy, or pink coloration. Adults are bee mimics with a unique wing mechanism allowing flight with elytra closed. The species has a one-year life cycle and is attracted to ethanol-based baits. Several subspecies have been described based on geographic variation in coloration.
scarab-beetle flower-chafer Cetoniinae bee-mimic sap-feeder North-America color-polymorphism
Euphoria fulgida holochloris
Emerald Euphoria
Euphoria fulgida holochloris is a subspecies of flower scarab beetle in the family Scarabaeidae. Adults are notable bee mimics with a distinctive flight pattern, and exhibit considerable color variation including metallic green, blue-green, and burgundy forms. The subspecies was described by Fall in 1905 and occurs across much of eastern and central North America.
flower-scarab bee-mimic sap-feeder pollinator color-polymorphism
Euphoria levinotata
Euphoria levinotata is a species of flower scarab beetle in the subfamily Cetoniinae, described by Orozco in 2012. It belongs to a genus known for bee-mimicking flight behavior and attraction to fermenting tree sap. The species occurs in the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona and New Mexico. Like other Euphoria species, adults are diurnal fliers that feed on sap flows and occasionally visit flowers for nectar and pollen.
Cetoniinae flower-scarab sap-feeding bee-mimic Southwest-USA Arizona New-Mexico diurnal 2012-description Euphoria-fulgida-complex
Euphoria monticola
Euphoria monticola is a species of flower scarab beetle in the family Scarabaeidae, subfamily Cetoniinae. It was originally described by Henry Walter Bates in 1889. The species was formerly considered conspecific with Euphoria fulgida but was recognized as distinct in a 2012 revision by Jesus Orozco. It is primarily distributed in the southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico) and mountainous regions of Mexico.
scarab flower-chafer bee-mimic sap-feeder oak-associate mountain-species diurnal
Helophilus
Marsh Flies, Tiger Hoverflies
Helophilus is a genus of moderate to large hoverflies in the family Syrphidae, commonly known as marsh flies or tiger hoverflies. Adults are notable bee or wasp mimics with distinctive lengthwise yellow stripes on the thorax and transverse bands on the abdomen. Larvae are aquatic "rat-tailed maggots" that filter-feed on microorganisms in organic-rich water. The genus comprises two subgenera: Helophilus and Pilinasica (the latter containing endemic New Zealand species).
hoverfly syrphid mimicry aquatic-larvae pollinator rat-tailed-maggot marsh-fly bee-mimic wasp-mimic Eristalini
Laphria columbica
Columbian Bee Killer
Laphria columbica is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Francis Walker in 1866. The genus Laphria is notable for species that are effective mimics of bumble bees, and L. columbica appears to follow this pattern. Robber flies in this genus are predatory and often observed perching on vegetation while hunting. The specific epithet "columbica" suggests a connection to the Columbia River region or British Columbia, though the exact etymology is not documented in available sources.
robber-fly bee-mimic asilidae predatory-fly diptera north-america bumble-bee-mimic laphria walker-1866 columbica
Laphria ferox
Laphria ferox is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. It belongs to the genus Laphria, a group commonly known as 'bee-like robber flies' due to their resemblance to bumble bees. The species was described by Samuel Wendell Williston in 1883. As with other robber flies, it is presumed to be a predatory insect, though specific behavioral and ecological details for this species remain poorly documented.
robber-fly bee-mimic predator North-America Diptera Asilidae Laphria Williston-1883
Laphria sacrator
Bee-mimic robberfly, Yellow-waisted Laphria
Laphria sacrator is a robber fly in the family Asilidae, commonly known as the Bee-mimic robberfly or Yellow-waisted Laphria. The species exhibits bumble bee mimicry, with yellow hairs on the mystax, thorax, and portions of the abdomen. It belongs to a genus renowned for producing highly convincing bee mimics that deceive both predators and prey.
robber-fly bee-mimic mimicry asilidae diptera bumble-bee-mimic north-america
Lichnanthe apina
bumble bee scarab beetle
Lichnanthe apina is a scarab beetle in the family Glaphyridae, commonly called a bumble bee scarab beetle due to its resemblance to bumble bees. The species was described by Carlson in 1980 and is endemic to California, USA. Like other members of Glaphyridae, it likely exhibits Batesian mimicry of bumble bees as a defensive adaptation.
mimicry endemic California Glaphyridae scarab-beetle bee-mimic
Mallophora orcina
Southern Bee-Killer
Mallophora orcina, commonly known as the southern bee killer, is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae. This species is a notable bumble bee mimic, using its hairy appearance and coloration to resemble its hymenopteran prey. As a member of the genus Mallophora, it shares characteristics with other bee-mimicking robber flies but can be distinguished by specific morphological features. The species is part of a guild of predatory flies that actively hunt other insects in flight.
robber-fly bee-mimic predator asilidae diptera
Mallota
Mimic Flies
Mallota is a Holarctic genus of hoverflies (family Syrphidae) containing approximately 30 described species. Adults are well known for their robust, bee-like appearance, functioning as mimics of bumble bees (Bombus species). The genus has been documented from North America, Europe, and Asia. Larvae develop in water-filled tree holes and other decaying wood cavities.
Syrphidae hoverfly bee-mimic Holarctic aquatic-larvae tree-hole pollinator mimicry
Mallota illinoensis
Midwestern Bee-mimic Fly
Mallota illinoensis is a syrphid fly (family Syrphidae) in the tribe Eristalini, described by Robertson in 1901 from Illinois. The species is a bumble bee mimic, with adults resembling bees in size, coloration, and behavior. Larvae develop in tree holes, where they inhabit water-collecting cavities in rotting wood. The species is part of a genus whose members are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic larval habitats.
bee-mimic bumble-bee-mimic tree-hole-habitat aquatic-larvae pollinator hover-fly flower-fly
Mallota sackeni
brown-haltered mimic fly, brown-haltered bee-mimic fly
Mallota sackeni is a species of hover fly (family Syrphidae) native to western North America. The species is known for its bee-mimicry, a common defensive adaptation among syrphid flies. Adults are active pollinators, while larvae develop in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments typical of the tribe Eristalini. The species has been documented from British Columbia to southern California and eastward to Idaho and Utah.
Syrphidae hover-fly bee-mimic western-North-America pollinator aquatic-larvae Eristalini
Osminiini
clearwing moths (tribe)
Osminiini is a tribe of clearwing moths within the family Sesiidae, established by Duckworth & Eichlin in 1977. Members are characterized by Batesian mimicry of stinging Hymenoptera, including spider wasps (Pompilidae) and bees. The tribe includes genera such as Melanosphecia, Akaisphecia, and Heterosphecia. Species exhibit specialized morphological adaptations including metallic coloration, transparent wings, long hind legs, and wasp-waist illusions that enhance their resemblance to hymenopteran models.
clearwing-moth Batesian-mimicry spider-wasp-mimic bee-mimic Southeast-Asia primary-rainforest mud-puddling acoustic-mimicry
Paranthrene fenestrata
Paranthrene fenestrata is a species of clearwing moth in the family Sesiidae, described by Barnes and Lindsey in 1922. Members of this family are known for their wasp- or bee-mimicking appearance, achieved through transparent wings and body coloration. The genus Paranthrene includes species that often exhibit this form of protective mimicry.
clearwing-moth bee-mimic wasp-mimic Sesiidae
Paranthrene sogaardi
Paranthrene sogaardi is a clearwing moth in the family Sesiidae, described by Taft & Smith in 2024. As a member of the genus Paranthrene, it likely exhibits the bee-mimicry characteristics common to this group, including reduced wing scaling that creates transparent areas and wasp-like coloration. The species is newly described with limited published information available.
clearwing-moth bee-mimic Sesiidae new-species-2024
Pterallastes
Pterallastes is a genus of bee-mimicking hoverflies (family Syrphidae) described by Loew in 1863. The genus contains four recognized species with a disjunct distribution: one species in North America (P. thoracicus), one in Japan (P. unicolor), and two in China (P. bomboides, P. bettyae). These flies exhibit Batesian mimicry of bees, a common defensive strategy in the subfamily Eristalinae.
hoverfly bee-mimic Syrphidae Milesiini disjunct-distribution pollinator North-America Asia China Japan
Sericomyia
Pond Flies
Sericomyia is a genus of large hoverflies in the family Syrphidae, commonly known as pond flies. Species within this genus are notable bee mimics, displaying both short-pile and long-pile coloration patterns. The genus is widespread across boreal forests of the Holarctic region, extending southward at higher elevations into the Oriental and Neotropical regions. Larvae are of the rat-tailed maggot type, specialized for aquatic life in oxygen-poor environments.
hoverfly bee-mimic Batesian-mimicry rat-tailed-maggot bog-habitat boreal Holarctic pollinator aquatic-larva Syrphidae
Somula
Somula is a genus of syrphid flies (flower flies) in the family Syrphidae, established by Macquart in 1847. The genus contains at least two described species: Somula decora and Somula mississippiensis. Members of this genus are notable for their wasp-mimicking appearance, particularly resembling yellowjackets or scoliid wasps in coloration and pattern. These flies are part of the diverse mimicry complex found within Syrphidae.
mimicry wasp-mimic bee-mimic Syrphidae Diptera North-America woodland-edge basking-behavior
Sphecodina abbottii
Abbott's sphinx
Abbott's sphinx is a North American hawk moth notable for its bee-mimicking flight and highly cryptic larval camouflage. Adults display violet-grey forewings with bark-like patterning and yellow-banded underwings. The caterpillars exhibit remarkable polymorphism, with some forms mimicking grapes while others resemble dead wood.
moth sphinx-moth hawk-moth camouflage mimicry bee-mimic polymorphism North-America
Toxomerus arcifer
Bow-shaped Calligrapher
Toxomerus arcifer is a small hover fly in the family Syrphidae, commonly known as the Bow-shaped Calligrapher. Adults are pollinators that visit flowers for nectar and pollen. Larvae are predators of aphids and other small soft-bodied insects. The species is part of a large New World genus with over 140 described species, many of which remain poorly studied.
pollinator biological-control aphid-predator bee-mimic
Trichiotinus assimilis
hairy flower scarab, flower chafer, bee-mimic beetle
Trichiotinus assimilis is a scarab beetle in the family Scarabaeidae, commonly known as the hairy flower scarab or bee-mimic beetle. It is found across much of North America, with records from Canada and the northern and western United States. The species is associated with flowers, where adults feed on pollen. It belongs to a genus whose members often exhibit bee-mimicry in appearance.
flower-chafer scarab-beetle bee-mimic North-America pollen-feeder
Volucellini
Volucellini is a tribe of hoverflies (Syrphidae) within the subfamily Eristalinae. The tribe includes four genera: Copestylum, Graptomyza, Ornidia, and Volucella. Members are known for their robust, often bee-mimicking appearance and association with rotting plant material, particularly cacti, for larval development. The tribe has a broad distribution with notable diversity in the Neotropical and Afrotropical regions.
hoverfly syrphid bee-mimic cactus-fly decomposer pollinator Neotropical Afrotropical forest arid