syrphids

Syrphids, commonly known as hoverflies or flower flies, are a large and diverse family of true flies (Diptera) with thousands of described species found worldwide. Adults are often seen on flowers, gleaning nectar and pollen, and many exhibit Batesian mimicry, resembling bees or wasps to deter predators. This resemblance does not confer stings but serves as camouflage in the adult environment, where they are important pollinators.

Taxonomy and morphology within the family Syrphidae are organized into subfamilies such as Syrphinae and Eristalinae, containing a wide range of genera including Episyrphus, Syrphus, and Eristalis. A common diagnostic feature is the presence of a spurious vein in the wings, a short antenna with an arista, and generally slender bodies. Male syrphids often have holoptic eyes that meet on top of the head, while females have separated eyes.

Ecology and behavior vary among subfamilies. Adults feed on nectar and pollen and frequently hover in place over flowers. Larvae show considerable diversity and occupy multiple ecological niches: many Syrphinae larvae are predatory, feeding on aphids and other small arthropods; Eristalinae larvae are often saprophagous or detritivorous, with hindgut- or rat-tailed morphologies adapted to aquatic or semi-aquatic environments.

Life cycle and pest interactions: eggs are laid near prey or decomposing matter; larvae hatch and develop, eventually pupating in soil, leaf litter, or aquatic substrates. Some species have multiple generations per year and over winter in various life stages. Because of their pollination role and aphid-control larvae, syrphids are valued in natural and agricultural ecosystems as beneficial insects.