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False bee-killer

False bee-killer

Promachus bastardii

A species of Promachus

Promachus bastardii is a fly species from the family of predatory flies (Asilidae). The scientific name of the species was first validly published in 1838 by Macquart.

General Info About False bee-killer
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Attributes of False bee-killer
Habitat
field
Adult Food Sources
Flies, bees, butterflies, moths, small beetles
Larva Food Source
Small arthropods, insect larvae, aphids, termites, small caterpillars
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The False bee-killer is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The False bee-killer typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
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Species Status of False bee-killer
It is found in North America and southern Africa.
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Distribution Area of False bee-killer
Canada
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Appearance of False bee-killer
False bee-killer is a small to medium-sized insect with a head covered with yellow hair and a gray or brown hair on the chest and abdomen. The abdomen is slender and brown with yellow stripes. The male ventral tip is conspicuously white.
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How to Identify False bee-killer?

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Life Cycle of False bee-killer
Egg The eggs of false bee-killer are typically laid in a protected environment. They are small, oval, and range in color from white to cream. The eggs are the dormant stage where the future larva develops.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of false bee-killer is worm-like, lacking wings and with a soft, segmented body. The larva feeds voraciously and grows rapidly, molting several times as it increases in size.
Pupal After reaching a sufficient size, the larva of false bee-killer pupates. The pupa is immobile and encased in a protective cocoon while it undergoes a drastic transformation, developing wings, legs, and adult structures.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult false bee-killer displays a slender body with long legs and pronounced mouthparts for predation. It has fully developed wings and vibrant colors, with distinct sexual dimorphism evident.
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Adult Size of False bee-killer
2.5 cm
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Predators of False bee-killer Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, various insectivorous arthropods
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Scientific Classification of False bee-killer
Class
Bugs
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Order
Flies
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Tips for Finding False bee-killer
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Youth Habitat of False bee-killer
Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands
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Adult Habitat of False bee-killer
Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract False bee-killer
As false bee-killer is a predatory species, bait traps are generally ineffective. However, attracting its prey such as smaller insects could indirectly lead to finding false bee-killer.
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Habitat Preferences of False bee-killer Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of false bee-killer are typically deposited in soil near plants, where larvae will find abundant prey. Searching for these should be focused on loose, nutrient-rich soil. The larvae dwell underground or in leaf litter, hunting small invertebrates; overturned logs and rocks in wooded areas are good places to look. Pupation for false bee-killer happens within the soil or rotting wood, thus inspecting these areas during late spring or early summer is advisable. Adult false bee-killer are commonly found in sunny, open fields and meadows with plenty of flowering plants, as they prey on flying insects. Observers would best search meadows with a net during daylight hours when false bee-killer adults are most active.
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When is the Best Time to Observe False bee-killer
The best time to find adult false bee-killer is during the daytime, particularly on sunny days when they are most active hunting for prey.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe False bee-killer
Warm, dry conditions are ideal for locating false bee-killer, as they prefer sunny environments for active hunting and are less active on cold or rainy days.
Are False bee-killer harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of False bee-killer
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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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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Wasps, Beetles, Flies
False bee-killer, as an adult, is a formidable predator to various insects. It employs its speed and formidable proboscis to ambush and subdue prey quickly. This species is particularly known for targeting flying insects, including bees and dragonflies. The hunting strategy of false bee-killer is a testament to its role in regulating pest populations in its habitat.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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