EUPEODES SP.

Eupeodes sp.

FLOWER FLY FAMILY (Syrphidae)


Description

This colorful Flower Fly is approximately 3/8 inch in length.  The eyes are large and dark red-brown.  The thorax is dark brown and the scutellum is a tan color.   The abdomen is black with paired yellow spots.  Usually after the first spots, the other spots merge to form yellow bands that narrow in the middle.  The wings are a clear tan color.  The abdomen has a black margin, which separates this genus from other Syrphid genera.  On the individual shown here there are narrow white “bands” in the black segments.  These are actually a fungus which has infected the fly, and will probably eventually kill it. 



Occurrence

This flower fly is found throughout the U.S.  The frequency of occurrence in Fontenelle Forest is unknown, but the individual shown here was photographed in late October.



Comments

The adults take nectar from flowers.  The larvae feed on aphids (although they are known to take other available food). 





Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Nature Association who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Loren Padelford.

Male Eupeodes sp.

View Full Size

 

 

 

 

© 2008 Fontenelle Forest. All Rights Reserved. | Website Design by REBEL INTERACTIVE