Species: Stripe-backed Fleckwing (Dasysyrphus albostriatus)
Family: Hoverflies (SYRPHIDAE)
Category: Insects (Other)
Location: Widespread
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. Stripe-backed Fleckwing (Dasysyrphus albostriatus)
Dasysyrphus albostriatus can be identified by the two parallel grey stripes on its thorax and the downward-angled yellow bands on its abdomen. It is a medium-small hoverfly with a wingspan no longer than a centimetre. It is also notable for the distinct markings along the front edge of its wings. It is widespread in the British Isles, although more so in southern England.
There are two distinct generations of this short-lived insect, one in Spring, followed by a second in late summer and early autumn.
Images
Dasysyrphus albostriatus (Stripe-backed Fleckwing)
This hoverfly species can be identified by the two parallel grey stripes on its thorax and the downward-angled yellow bands on its abdomen. This individual is a female.
Dasysyrphus albostriatus (Stripe-backed Fleckwing)
Dasysyrphus albostriatus usually has a central black stripe on its face, as can be seen in this photograph.
The individual shown here is a female.
Dasysyrphus albostriatus (Stripe-backed Fleckwing)
This hoverfly species can be identified by the two parallel grey stripes on its thorax and the downward-angled yellow bands on its abdomen.
The individual shown here is a male.
Dasysyrphus albostriatus (Stripe-backed Fleckwing)
This hoverfly is a medium-small hoverfly with a wingspan no longer than a centimetre. Here it is photographed on a Dandelion flower. This individual is a female.
