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Pied hoverfly

Pied hoverfly

Scaeva pyrastri

A species of Scaeva, Also known as Holarctic pied hover fly, Wasp mimic

Scaeva pyrastri can reach a length of 1.09 - 1.5 cm. This large distinctive fly has three pairs of white comma markings (lunules) on the abdomen, these are yellow on Scaeva selenitica.The face is yellow, with reddish brown antennae. The eyes are covered with hair. Scutellum is brown yellow. The legs are red with a black base of the femur. The male's eyes do touch in the centre of the frons, while in the females they are separated. The larvae are light green or sometimes pink, with a white dorsal longitudinal stripe.

General Info About Pied hoverfly
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Attributes of Pied hoverfly
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Habitat
garden; meadow; wasteland
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers such as dandelions, buttercups, clovers, thistles, and ivy
Larva Food Source
Aphids
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Pied hoverfly is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Pied hoverfly 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
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Species Status of Pied hoverfly
They are present in most of Europe, in the Near East, in the East Palearctic ecozone, in Nearctic ecozone, in North Africa and in the Oriental ecozone.
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Adult Size of Pied hoverfly
8 - 20 mm
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Predators of Pied hoverfly Larvae
Amphibians, birds, reptiles, insectivorous insects
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Predators of Adult Pied hoverfly
Birds, spiders, insectivorous mammals
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Interesting Facts About Pied hoverfly
Pied hoverfly larvae can consume up to 400 aphids as they develop, significantly aiding in pest control.
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Scientific Classification of Pied hoverfly
Class
Bugs
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Order
Flies
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Genus
Scaeva
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Tips for Finding Pied hoverfly
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Youth Habitat of Pied hoverfly
Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Habitat Preferences of Pied hoverfly Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of pied hoverfly are typically laid singly on leaves infested with aphids, the larvae's primary food source. Larval development takes place on these plants, where they are voracious predators of aphids in gardens, fields, and meadows. Searching for larvae would involve inspecting the undersides of leaves, especially in aphid-rich environments. Pupae might be found attached to leaves or other structures nearby, often camouflaged, so keen observation is necessary. Adults are commonly seen hovering around flowers in various habitats such as parks, gardens, and meadows, feeding on nectar. To observe adults, look for them during sunny days around flowering plants where they are likely to feed and mate.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Pied hoverfly
The most suitable time to find adult pied hoverfly is during daytime, especially when flowers are in bloom, as they are diurnal and often visit flowers for nectar.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Pied hoverfly
Sunny and warm weather conditions are most suitable for observing adult pied hoverfly, as they are more active during these conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Pied hoverfly at Different Life Stages
Egg Pied hoverfly eggs are tiny and often laid on or near host plants. Search for them on the underside of leaves or in crevices in plant stems.
Larva Pied hoverfly larvae are usually found on plants, often where aphid colonies are present, as they consume them. Look for them on leaves infested with aphids.
Pupal Pied hoverfly pupae can be found attached to a sturdy structure like a plant stem or leaf. They blend well into the environment, so careful inspection is necessary.
Adult Pied hoverfly adults are hoverfly mimics and frequently visit flowers to feed on nectar. Searching flowering plants and gardens during sunny days is thus an effective way to spot them.
Are Pied hoverfly harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Pied hoverfly
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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
Pied hoverfly is a beneficial pollinator, often seen hovering around flowers, attracted by their vivid colors and sweet scents. It feeds on pollen, inadvertently collecting and transferring it from bloom to bloom, aiding in plant reproduction. This inadvertent pollination process is crucial for many ecosystems.
Predators of Pests
Stage
Larvae
Purpose
Feed Itself
Pied hoverfly, in its larval stage, is an efficient hunter of soft-bodied pests, primarily aphids. These larvae crawl over plants consuming hundreds of aphids during their development, which not only satiates their hunger but also benefits the ecosystem by controlling aphid populations. This biological control agent operates silently, often unnoticed by those not specifically searching for them.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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