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Sphaerophoria

Scientific name: Sphaerophoria

Sphaerophoria

Scientific name: Sphaerophoria

Photo By Jennifer Rycenga , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

Description

The Sphaerophoria genus comprises a group of hoverflies notable not just for their appearance, which mimics that of wasps to ward off predators, but also for their pivotal role in pollination. A common misconception is that all fly species are merely pests; however, Sphaerophoria species are beneficial insects, actively contributing to the pollination of various plants, much like bees. Their larvae are voracious predators of aphids, aiding in natural pest control and maintaining the balance of ecosystems.

Species of Sphaerophoria

Long hoverfly

Black-footed globetail

Sphaerophoria taeniata

Sphaerophoria batava

Tufted globetail

Sphaerophoria menthastri

Sphaerophoria sulphuripes

Photo By Jennifer Rycenga , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Arthropods

Class

Bugs

Order

Flies

Family

Hover flies

Genus

Sphaerophoria

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