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Hover flies

Hover flies

Eristalinus aeneus

A species of Eristalinus, Also known as Common lagoon fly

The wing length is 7 - 9 mm. The eyes are patterned with obvious black spots. Tergites 2 and 3 are completely shiny. The thoracic dorsum has faint greyish stripes (in Southern Europe it has five strong grey stripes). In males the eyes meet on the frons. In females the eyes are bare on the lower half. The hind tibiae have a black ring after middle, and all tarsi with segments 2-4 darkened.

General Info About Hover flies
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Attributes of Hover flies
Colors
Black
Habitat
freshwater; coastal site
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers, pollen, honeydew, sugar-rich secretions, some fruit juices
Larva Food Source
Decomposing organic matter, rotting vegetation, manure, organic slurry, sewage
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Hover flies is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Predatory
The Hover flies typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Sponging mouthparts
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Species Status of Hover flies
The distribution of this species is cosmopolitan.
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Distribution Area of Hover flies
Worldwide
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Appearance of Hover flies
Hover flies is a small insect that is brown overall, with multiple gray stripes on the back of the chest, and a brownish belly with metallic luster. It has a pair of dark antennae and noticeable dark spots on the compound eyes.
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How to Identify Hover flies?

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Life Cycle of Hover flies
Egg The laid eggs of hover flies are tiny and often laid in clusters. Incubation depends on temperature and species, leading to a hatch in several days. Initial size is minute, with limited distinguishing characteristics.
Larva Larva of the hover flies vigorously feed to grow, undergoing molts as they expand. They are legless and maggot-like, with distinct mouthparts for feeding. Color and size vary with instars, but all are focused on intake and growth.
Pupal The larva of hover flies transforms into a pupa, often encased in a hard, protective cocoon. Shape is immobile and rounded, color varies, but it typically reflects the surrounding environment. Transformation into an adult occurs within.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult hover flies'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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Adult Size of Hover flies
8 - 12 mm
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Predators of Hover flies Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, insectivorous mammals, spiders, predaceous insects
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Predators of Adult Hover flies
Birds, spiders, insectivorous mammals, reptiles, dragonflies, mantises
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Scientific Classification of Hover flies
Tips for Finding Hover flies
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Youth Habitat of Hover flies
Freshwater Habitats
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Habitat Preferences of Hover flies Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of hover flies are typically found in decaying organic material or aquatic habitats rich in decaying matter where they feed on microorganisms. Searches for these larvae should focus on muddy margins of stagnant water bodies or waterlogged soil. Adults are commonly spotted around flowers and crops, partaking in nectar and pollen. To observe adult hover flies, a search through gardens, meadows, and agricultural fields on sunny days would yield the best chance of sighting as they hover or rest on plant foliage and flowers. Pupae are likely to be located close to the larval habitat, hidden away in soil or detritus, a patient and careful search in these areas may reveal them.
Are Hover flies harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Hover flies
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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
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Hover flies is attracted to flowers by their vivid colors and enticing smells. While feeding on nectar and pollen, hover flies inadvertently collects pollen on its body, which is then transferred to other flowers, aiding in plant pollination. This incidental contact ensures the cross-pollination of many plants.
Decomposers
Stage
Larvae
Hover flies larvae play a crucial role in breaking down organic waste, thereby participating in nutrient cycling. These larvae typically thrive in decaying matter such as dead animals, plant debris, excrement, and refuse. In the process, they contribute to soil fertility and the ecosystem's health as a whole. This decomposer's ability to survive in various habitats, including aquatic ones, is a less commonly known characteristic of its ecological niche.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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