Bumble-bee-mimic
Guides
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.
Mallota mississipensis
Eastern Mimic Fly
Mallota mississipensis is a species of hover fly (family Syrphidae) in the subfamily Eristalinae. It is one of approximately 13 species in the genus Mallota found in North America. The species is a bumble bee mimic, exhibiting the black and yellow coloration typical of this defensive mimicry strategy. Like other members of its genus, the larvae develop in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments, specifically in water that collects in tree holes. The species is known from eastern North America, with observations documented in the iNaturalist database.
Mallota posticata
Hairy-eyed Bee-mimic Fly
Mallota posticata is a syrphid fly (family Syrphidae) known for its bumble bee mimicry. The species is documented in Illinois and broader North America, with larvae developing in water-filled tree holes. Adults exhibit grooming behavior on leaves and serve as pollinators.
Pocota bomboides
American Pocota
Pocota bomboides is a species of hoverfly (family Syrphidae) native to North America. The species name "bomboides" suggests a resemblance to bumble bees (Bombus), indicating likely Batesian mimicry. As a member of the subfamily Eristalinae, it belongs to a diverse group of flower-visiting flies. Very little specific biological information has been published for this species.