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A short-horned fly

A short-horned fly

Anthomyia procellaris

A species of Anthomyia

Inhabiting a range of environments, a short-horned fly showcases its fascinating life cycle transformation from an ovular larva to a winged adult, equipped with halteres for stabilizing flight. Remarkably, this species possesses an intricate compound eye system, granting it a wide field of vision, essential for navigating its surroundings and evading predators. These attributes underscore its ecological role and evolutionary adaptations within its habitat.

General Info About A short-horned fly
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Attributes of A short-horned fly
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
White
Habitat
These flies prefer wooded habitats and hedge rows. They fly from Spring to autumn and love sun bathing. They feed on nectar, pollen and excrements. Larvae are associated with bird’s nests and feed on bird droppings.
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar, plant sap, decaying fruit or vegetables, honeydew, other soft plant parts
Larva Food Source
Decaying organic matter, roots of plants, seeds, algae, fungi
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Sponging mouthparts
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Distribution Area of A short-horned fly
This species is present in Europe, the East Palearctic realm (China and Japan), the Near East, and the Nearctic realm (Michigan south to North Carolina).
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Life Cycle of A short-horned fly
Egg The a short-horned fly begins life as a tiny, typically oval egg. Colors may vary, often resembling the environment to aid in camouflage. At this stage, the a short-horned fly is immobile and undergoes a period of incubation before hatching.
Larva Once hatched, the larva of the a short-horned fly is worm-like, with a soft body, lacking wings and true legs. It is voracious, with growth defined by molting and size increase, focused on accumulation of nutrients for the next stage.
Pupal Entering the pupal stage, the a short-horned fly encapsulates itself in a protective cocoon. It's a transitional stage, where organs and tissues undergo reorganization. The creature is largely immobile, and external changes are subtle.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult a short-horned fly’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Predators of A short-horned fly Larvae
Birds, beetles, ants, wasps, spiders
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Predators of Adult A short-horned fly
Birds, rodents, spiders, frogs, lizards, insectivorous insects
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Scientific Classification of A short-horned fly
Tips for Finding A short-horned fly
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Youth Habitat of A short-horned fly
Rotting and Decaying Matter, Soil and Ground Surfaces
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Adult Habitat of A short-horned fly
Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Forests and Woodlands
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How Can You Attract A short-horned fly
For a short-horned fly, appropriate trap food may include decaying organic material or specific attractants related to the adult's diet or oviposition sites.
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Habitat Preferences of A short-horned fly Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of a short-horned fly are commonly laid in decaying organic matter or soil rich in organic material. Larvae, feeding on decomposing organic substances, are typically found in these environments as well. Pupae tend to be buried close to the surface in the same type of soil where larvae develop. Adults frequently inhabit gardens, fields, and areas with abundant flowers for feeding. To locate these stages, one would search through decomposing compost or soil for eggs and larvae, lightly dig the soil for pupae, and inspect nearby flowers and vegetation for adults.
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How and Where Can You Find A short-horned fly at Different Life Stages
Larva A short-horned fly larvae can often be found in habitats rich in organic material where they feed, such as decomposing vegetation or soil. Inspection of such substrates may reveal their presence.
Pupal Pupae of a short-horned fly might be found in the soil or within a few inches of the surface of their larval food source. Careful excavation and observation near larval habitats can locate them.
Adult Adult a short-horned fly are usually easiest to locate as they are attracted to food sources, such as rotting fruit or organic waste. Spotting them often involves visiting these attractants during sunny, warm days when they are most active.
Are A short-horned fly harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of A short-horned fly
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Decomposers
Pollinator
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
A short-horned fly is attracted to flowers primarily by their scent. It feeds on pollen, which inadvertently leads to pollination. As a short-horned fly moves from flower to flower, pollen grains stick to its body and are transferred, facilitating the reproductive process of plants.
Decomposers
Items
Dead Animals, Plant Remains, Animal Feces
A short-horned fly plays an essential role in nutrient cycling by breaking down organic matter. As larvae, they are particularly effective in decomposing dead animals, plant remains, and animal feces. These organisms help to return nutrients to the soil, contributing to soil fertility and ecosystem functioning. A little-known fact is that a short-horned fly's decomposition process also helps suppress the growth of harmful bacteria that can proliferate in decaying matter.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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