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Black-margined flower fly

Black-margined flower fly

Syrphus opinator

A species of Syrphus

Syrphus opinator is a species of syrphid fly in the family Syrphidae.

General Info About Black-margined flower fly
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Attributes of Black-margined flower fly
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Habitat
live oak; chaparral
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar, pollen, honeydew, plant sap, fluids from decomposing fruit
Larva Food Source
Aphids, scale insects, psyllids, thrips, small caterpillars
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Sponging mouthparts
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Species Status of Black-margined flower fly
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Black-margined flower fly
United States
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Life Cycle of Black-margined flower fly
Egg The eggs of black-margined flower fly are typically oval and deposited in clusters. At this stage, the color can vary, often blending with the environment to avoid predation. Embryonic development occurs within, leading to the next stage.
Larva Upon hatching from the egg, the larva of black-margined flower fly is elongated and legless, with a distinct head. It feeds voraciously, growing rapidly; this stage includes several molts. The larva generally appears worm-like and lacks wings.
Pupal As black-margined flower fly transitions from larva to adult, it enters the pupal stage. Encased within a protective puparium, the organism undergoes morphological changes, including the development of wings and legs. The pupa remains stationary, often camouflaged.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult black-margined flower 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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Predators of Black-margined flower fly Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, jumping spiders, mantises
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Scientific Classification of Black-margined flower fly
Class
Bugs
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Order
Flies
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Genus
Syrphus
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Tips for Finding Black-margined flower fly
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Youth Habitat of Black-margined flower fly
Rotting and Decaying Matter, Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Black-margined flower fly
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Flower-rich Habitats
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How Can You Attract Black-margined flower fly
Adult black-margined flower fly can be attracted using sweet substances like honey-water solutions or by planting flowers that are known to attract them such as lavender or marigolds.
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Habitat Preferences of Black-margined flower fly Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of black-margined flower fly are often found on foliage or within the layers of aphid colonies, as they are voracious predators of these pests, thriving particularly in garden spaces and agricultural areas. Adult black-margined flower fly, easily spotted by their hovering flight and striking patterns, commonly visit flowers in a variety of habitats including meadows, parks, and gardens to feed on pollen and nectar. To search for the different stages, one would inspect underneath leaves and along stems for the larvae, especially in areas with aphid populations, while for adults, a visit to flower-rich environments during sunny days would provide the best chance of observation.
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How and Where Can You Find Black-margined flower fly at Different Life Stages
Egg Black-margined flower fly eggs are typically laid on the underside of leaves or near aphid colonies. To find them, carefully inspect the leaves of plants known to host aphids, as the eggs are very small and can be difficult to spot with the naked eye.
Larva Black-margined flower fly larvae are predatory and can often be found on plants infested with aphids, their primary food source. Look for them by checking aphid colonies on plant stems and leaves, where they will be actively searching for or consuming their prey.
Pupal Black-margined flower fly pupae are typically found attached to plants or other structures near the feeding site of the larva. Finding them involves searching the nearby area of known larval feeding sites for the distinctive, motionless pupal cases, often on the underside of leaves or on stems.
Adult Black-margined flower fly adults are often found hovering or feeding at flowers. To find them, visit gardens, meadows, or areas with abundant flowering plants during sunny days. They can be spotted flying in place, similar to a hummingbird, while feeding on nectar.
Are Black-margined flower fly harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Black-margined flower 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
Black-margined flower fly is a beneficial pollinator, often seen hovering around flowers, attracted by their vivid colors and sweet scents. It feeds on pollen and nectar, inadvertently collecting pollen on its body and transferring it from flower to flower, aiding in plant reproduction.
Predators of Pests
Stage
Larvae
Diets
Aphids
The larval stage of black-margined flower fly is critical for biological control as it voraciously preys on soft-bodied pests like aphids. These predators are essential for maintaining the ecological balance in gardens and farms. An interesting aspect of black-margined flower fly behavior is its incredible appetite during the larval stage, which can significantly reduce pest populations.
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