Volucellini
Guides
Copestylum
Bromeliad Flies
Copestylum is one of the largest genera of hoverflies (Syrphidae) in the Americas, comprising more than 300 species. The genus is neotropical in origin, with only four species recorded outside the Americas, likely introduced through cactus trade. Larvae are saprophagous and develop in decaying tissues of columnar cacti and other succulent plants, playing important roles in nutrient recycling in xeric environments. Adults are commonly known as bromeliad flies.
Copestylum opalescens
Opalescent Bromeliad Fly
Copestylum opalescens is a syrphid fly species in the tribe Volucellini, commonly known as the Opalescent Bromeliad Fly. It is one of approximately 50 species in the genus Copestylum, a group of New World flower flies predominantly associated with bromeliad microhabitats. The species was originally described by Townsend in 1901 under the genus Volucella. Like other Copestylum species, adults are likely flower visitors, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.