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Small hover fly

Small hover fly

Melanostoma fasciatum

A species of Melanostoma

General Info About Small hover fly
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Attributes of Small hover fly
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Habitat
grassland; crop; garden; vegetation
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers, pollen, honeydew, floral honey, various flowering plants
Larva Food Source
Aphids, thrips, small caterpillars, beetle larvae, mites
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Small hover fly is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Sponging mouthparts
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Species Status of Small hover fly
It is found in New Zealand.
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Distribution Area of Small hover fly
New Zealand
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Predators of Small hover fly Larvae
Frogs and toads, beetles, assassin bugs, birds, larger predatory insects
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Predators of Adult Small hover fly
Birds, wasps, spiders, dragonflies, robber flies
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Interesting Facts About Small hover fly
Members of small hover fly can remarkably hover in mid-air due to their rapid wing-beat, mimicking the intricate flight patterns of some hummingbirds.
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Scientific Classification of Small hover fly
Tips for Finding Small hover fly
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Youth Habitat of Small hover fly
Rotting and Decaying Matter, Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Small hover fly
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas, Gardens, Meadows
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When is the Best Time to Observe Small hover fly
The best time to find adult small hover fly is during warmer months, especially late spring to early autumn, when they are most active and temperatures allow for their flight and feeding activity.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Small hover fly
Adult small hover fly prefer sunny and warm conditions, as cooler temperatures limit their flight abilities. Hence, looking for small hover fly during sunny days is most suitable.
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How and Where Can You Find Small hover fly at Different Life Stages
Larva Small hover fly larvae are predaceous on soft-bodied insects like aphids. Look for them on the underside of leaves or within colonies of aphids on various plants.
Pupal Small hover fly pupae are often found attached to a solid substrate near their feeding sites. Check the stems of plants or the underside of leaves, especially where larval feeding occurred.
Adult Adult small hover fly can be found on or near flowers, as they feed on nectar and pollen. Search flowering plants and listen for their distinctive buzz mimicking that of a bee.
Are Small hover fly harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Small 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
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Small hover fly is attracted to flowers primarily by their vivid colors and enticing smells. This insect feeds on pollen, and while doing so, it inadvertently picks up pollen on its body and transfers it to other flowers, aiding in plant pollination.
Predators of Pests
Stage
Larvae
Purpose
Feed Itself
Small hover fly larvae engage in a silent hunt within the foliage. Camouflaged among greenery, they ambush unsuspecting aphids. They grab their prey with their mouthparts and rapidly consume them, obtaining nourishment essential for development. Small hover fly contribute substantially to controlling aphid populations, a little-known but significant ecological service.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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