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Bee Flies

Bee Flies

Ligyra tantalus

A species of Ligyra

Ligyra tantalus is a species of insect in the Bombyliidae family, commonly known as bee flies. It has an orange and brown thorax and a black abdomen with a white ring and four spots on it, although the rearmost two spots can be joined together in some specimens. The wings are purplish-black and swept back from the body when at rest.

General Info About Bee Flies
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Attributes of Bee Flies
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Habitat
Mountainous area
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from various flowering plants, including asteraceae and apiaceae species
Larva Food Source
Eggs and larvae of other insects, particularly beetles and grasshoppers
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Piercing-sucking mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Bee Flies
It is found in Asia in areas such as China (mainland) and Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines (Palawan), Taiwan, and Thailand and also in Australia.
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Life Cycle of Bee Flies
Egg The egg of bee Flies is small, oval, and often laid in groups. Incubation results in a larva, distinct from the adult in morphology and behavior, preparing for the next stage.
Larva The larva of bee Flies, also known as a maggot, is wormlike, lacking true legs and wings. It grows rapidly, molting several times and increasing in size with each instar.
Pupal Transitioning to the pupal stage, bee Flies encapsulates itself, undergoing significant transformation. The pupa is immobile, and the body is reorganizing internally, developing adult structures.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult bee Flies displays fully formed wings and reproductive organs. Its body is hardened, with a dramatic change in shape and color from the larva.
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Interesting Facts About Bee Flies
Bee Flies larvae can infiltrate other insect nests, where they covertly consume the host's provisions or offspring.
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Scientific Classification of Bee Flies
Class
Bugs
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Order
Flies
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Family
Bee flies
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Genus
Ligyra
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Tips for Finding Bee Flies
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How Can You Attract Bee Flies
Adult bee Flies may be attracted to trap foods that mimic the scents and visual cues of their natural nectar sources, while larval stages may require specific host materials that cater to their dietary needs.
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Habitat Preferences of Bee Flies Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of bee Flies are often deposited near the nests of their host species, which includes solitary bees. Once the larvae hatch, they infiltrate the bee nests to feed on provisions or bee larvae. The larvae typically reside deep within the soil or in sandy areas where their hosts are likely to nest. Upon reaching the pupal stage, bee Flies remain underground, typically within close proximity to the depleted food source. Adults, once emerged, are commonly seen in open areas such as meadows or deserts where they use their long proboscis to feed on nectar from flowers, often while in flight.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Bee Flies
Adult bee Flies are usually more active during warmer parts of the day and can be more easily spotted during periods of peak sunlight, while larvae and pupae will need to be sought out depending on their particular developmental schedules within their habitats.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Bee Flies
Mild, sunny weather with little to no wind is typically ideal for finding adult bee Flies, as they are likely to be out foraging. Larval and pupal stages may be less affected by weather conditions since they may be in more sheltered environments.
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How and Where Can You Find Bee Flies at Different Life Stages
Adult Bee Flies adults can often be found in open, sunny areas where flowers are abundant. They are likely to be observed hovering or feeding on nectar. It’s easiest to spot them by quietly approaching flowering plants on warm, sunny days.
Pupal Locating a bee Flies in the pupal stage requires searching the ground or in vegetation, as they often pupate in the soil or litter near their larval food sources. Look for the pupal cases hidden amongst the detritus or lightly buried.
Larva Bee Flies larvae might be found on or within their host substrates, often in soil or decomposing material depending on their specific ecological niche. Searching around areas rich in organic matter may yield sightings of their larvae.
Are Bee Flies harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Bee 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
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Bee Flies is an effective pollinator, often seen hovering over flowers, attracted by their vivid colors and sweet scents. It feeds on pollen, and as it moves from bloom to bloom, it inadvertently transfers pollen, aiding in plant reproduction. This incidental contact ensures the cross-pollination of many plants.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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