Species: Long-winged Duskyface (Melanostoma scalare)
Family: Hoverflies (SYRPHIDAE)
Category: Insects (Other)
Location: NE
A. Insects (Other)
More extensive information on insects can be found in a separate blog post.
B. Hoverflies (SYRPHIDAE)
True to their name, the hoverflies hover around flowers, and then alight to feed on nectar and pollen. They are very important pollinators, and despite the fact that some look like wasps or bees, this is just mimicry and helps to keep potential predators at bay. Hoverflies have no sting, and have short, drooping antennae. The larvae are as useful as the adults, in that they feed on aphids.
We have a photograph-filled blog post about all the hoverflies that we have seen in the Cemetery that may be worth your time.
C. Long-winged Duskyface (Melanostoma scalare)
This is a small 5.5mm to 8mm hoverfly (wingspan measurements) which is a widespread and abundant species, usually associated with grassland. Its flight season throughout the year is relatively long, with more individuals being seen at Springtime. Notice how its wings, when folded back, are considerably longer than its body.
Images
Long-winged Duskyface (Melanostoma scalare)
This is a small 5.5mm to 8mm hoverfly which is a widespread and abundant species, usually associated with grassland. Notice how its wings, when folded back, are considerably longer than its body.
This individual is a female, photographed in mid-April on a Dandelion.
