Manx robber fly
Scientific name: Machimus
Manx robber fly
Scientific name: Machimus
Photo By gailhampshire from Cradley, Malvern, U.K , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original Description
Machimus species are formidable aerial predators. Unlike the gentle hover of butterflies, Machimus displays impressive speed and agility in capturing prey mid-flight, typically targeting other insects. Their fierce hunting skills, these flies play a critical role in controlling pest populations, thus benefiting agricultural ecosystems. Their ability to mimic the appearance of bees or wasps is not just a mere coincidence but a clever evolutionary strategy for protection and hunting.
Species of Manx robber fly
Photo By gailhampshire from Cradley, Malvern, U.K , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original