Flower-flies
Guides
Eosalpingogaster
Eosalpingogaster is a genus of flower flies (Syrphidae) established by Hull in 1949 and elevated to full generic status based on adult morphology, biological data, and molecular phylogenetics. Species in this genus are specialized predators of carmine cochineal insects (Dactylopius spp., Dactylopiidae), which are the source of carminic acid used in red dyes. The genus includes multiple species, with two new species described in a 2011 revision.
Palpada
Plushback Flies
Palpada is a genus of 85 species of flower flies (hoverflies) in the tribe Eristalini, distributed across the Neotropical and Nearctic regions. Adults are often colorful and bee-like in appearance. The genus is distinguished from related Eristalini genera by specific morphological characters including uniform eye pile, pale hairs on the meron, and distinctive wing venation. Larvae are aquatic 'rat-tailed' maggots with extensible breathing siphons that allow survival in low-oxygen environments.
Temnostoma
Falsehorn Flies
Temnostoma is a genus of hoverflies (Syrphidae) renowned for their sophisticated Batesian mimicry of wasps. Adults possess overall morphological resemblance to hymenopterans, including darkened wing margins that mimic the folded wings of vespid wasps at rest. A distinctive behavioral adaptation involves waving the forelegs in front of the head to simulate wasp antennae. The genus comprises approximately 25 described species distributed across the Holarctic region, with larvae that are saproxylic—developing in wet, decaying wood where they feed on microorganisms.
Teuchocnemis
Spur Flies
Teuchocnemis is a small genus of North American flower flies (family Syrphidae) commonly known as spur flies. The genus contains two recognized species: T. bacuntius and T. lituratus. Members are placed in the subfamily Eristalinae and tribe Milesiini.
Tropidia
flower flies, hover flies
Tropidia is a genus of hoverflies (family Syrphidae) containing approximately 20 species distributed across the Northern Hemisphere. These flower flies are characterized by their distinctive wing venation and often bold color patterns. The genus includes four species recorded from Northeastern North America, with Tropidia albistylum recently documented in Canada. Species in this genus are typically found in forested habitats and are associated with flowers for nectar feeding.