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Narcissus bulb fly

Narcissus bulb fly

Merodon equestris

A species of Merodon, Also known as Large bulb fly

The narcissus bulb fly has evolved to visually imitate a bumblebee, which is a stinging insect, as a defense mechanism. It can be found in open forested areas, gardens, suburban parks, and horticultural land. It flies low in vegetation in a zig-zag flight pattern. The adults feed on pollen and nectar, and the larvae feed on the bulbs of plants in the lily family.

General Info About Narcissus bulb fly
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Attributes of Narcissus bulb fly
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Habitat
warm sunny sheltered flowery spot; garden
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, pollen, flower resources from a variety of plant species
Larva Food Source
Bulbs, root tissue, allium species
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Narcissus bulb 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
Phytophagous
The Narcissus bulb fly feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
The Narcissus bulb fly 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 Narcissus bulb fly
It is found in the Palearctic. It has been introduced to New Zealand.
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Distribution Area of Narcissus bulb fly
Palearctic, Fennoscandia, Iberia, Mediterranean basin, Ireland, Europe, Russia, Japan, British Columbia, California, New Zealand
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Life Cycle of Narcissus bulb fly
Egg The egg of narcissus bulb fly is typically laid in close proximity to food sources. The eggs are small and can exhibit various colors but usually blend with the environment to avoid predation.
Larva As larvae, narcissus bulb fly appear markedly different from the adult stage, lacking wings and with a soft, elongated body designed for feeding and rapid growth.
Pupal During narcissus bulb fly's pupation, it is encased in a puparium, undergoing a complete transformation. The pupa is generally immobile and the body inside is reconstructing into the adult form.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult narcissus bulb fly'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 Narcissus bulb fly
1 - 1.3 cm
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Predators of Narcissus bulb fly Larvae
Ants, predacious beetles, spiders
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Scientific Classification of Narcissus bulb fly
Class
Bugs
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Order
Flies
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Genus
Merodon
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Tips for Finding Narcissus bulb fly
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Youth Habitat of Narcissus bulb fly
Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of Narcissus bulb fly
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Narcissus bulb fly
Since narcissus bulb fly primarily feeds on nectar and pollen, flowers or artificial sweet solutions could be used as attractants.
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Habitat Preferences of Narcissus bulb fly Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of narcissus bulb fly typically dwell in the bulb-like structures of certain flowers, particularly favoring members of the lily and onion families. As for the pupae, they are often encountered nestled in the soil nearby their larval food sources. Adult narcissus bulb fly, on the other hand, frequent flower-rich habitats where they can be spotted hovering around and feeding on the nectar and pollen. If one were to search for the various stages of narcissus bulb fly, it would involve inspecting the base of suitable plants for larvae, sifting through the soil for pupae, and visiting floral areas to observe the adults.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Narcissus bulb fly
The best time to find narcissus bulb fly is during the day, particularly on sunny and warm days when flowers are in full bloom and the insect is active.
Are Narcissus bulb fly harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Narcissus bulb 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
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Narcissus bulb fly is an efficient pollinator, often seen hovering around flowers, attracted by their vivid colors and sweet scents. While feeding on nectar and pollen, narcissus bulb fly inadvertently collects pollen on its body, which is then transferred to other flowers, aiding in plant reproduction.
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