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American hover fly

American hover fly

Eupeodes americanus

A species of Eupeodes, Also known as Long-tailed aphideater

The american hover fly (Eupeodes americanus) is a metallic-green fly in its adult stage that is known for hanging out around meadows. While enjoying the scenery, their larval forms are known for being effective biological control agents against aphids. Adults are also identified with several yellow stripes along its backside.

General Info About American hover fly
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Attributes of American hover fly
Colors
Black
Yellow
Habitat
meadow and field with flowers and foliage
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, pollen, honeydew, plant sap
Larva Food Source
Aphids, small soft-bodied insects
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The American hover fly is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The American hover fly is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
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Species Status of American hover fly
It is found throughout North America.
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Distribution Area of American hover fly
North America
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Adult Size of American hover fly
9 - 12 mm
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Predators of American hover fly Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, spiders
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Predators of Adult American hover fly
Birds, dragonflies, rodents
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Interesting Facts About American hover fly
American hover fly can perform incredibly agile mid-air maneuvers, including rapid direction changes and hovering still, much like a tiny organic helicopter.
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Scientific Classification of American hover fly
Class
Bugs
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Order
Flies
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Tips for Finding American hover fly
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Youth Habitat of American hover fly
Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of American hover fly
Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Flower-rich Habitats
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When is the Best Time to Observe American hover fly
The suitable time for finding adult american hover fly is during warmer months, commonly from late spring to early fall, during daylight hours when they are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe American hover fly
Sunny and calm weather is the best condition to find adult american hover fly, as they are often seen hovering or feeding on flowers.
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How and Where Can You Find American hover fly at Different Life Stages
Larva Larvae of american hover fly can be found on leaves infested with aphids. They are green or brown, blending with the plant, and actively hunt aphids. Searching for colonies of aphids on the undersides of leaves can lead to discovering american hover fly larvae.
Pupal American hover fly pupae are often attached to solid surfaces near aphid colonies, such as stems or leaves. They can be identified by their barrel shape and distinct color patterns. Look for them in sheltered areas on plants with high aphid populations.
Adult Adult american hover fly are found in areas with an abundance of flowers, particularly those with easily accessible nectar. Gardens, meadows, and parks are ideal searching grounds. They are often seen hovering or resting on flower heads, especially during sunny and warm weather.
Are American hover fly harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of American hover 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
Predators of Pests
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Asteraceae, Fruit Trees
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
American hover fly is a beneficial pollinator, often seen hovering over flowers of Asteraceae and fruit trees. Attracted by the vivid colors and sweet scents, it feeds on pollen and nectar. While feeding, pollen grains stick to its body and are inadvertently transferred to other flowers, aiding in cross-pollination.
Predators of Pests
Stage
Larvae
Purpose
Feed Itself
The larvae of american hover fly are voracious predators that target aphid populations. Unlike the harmless nectar-feeding behavior of the adults, the larvae hunt down these pests in their habitat, clamping onto them with strong mandibles. By controlling aphid outbreaks, american hover fly plays a crucial ecological role in maintaining the balance in gardens and farmland.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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