Diptera.info

Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Syrphidae ID and behaviour

Posted by Cesa on 03-10-2010 20:18

Hello,
This syrphid is from Black Sea coast in September 2010. I ask for (1) its identification, (2) meaning this behaviour. It presses with its forelegs the flower from both sides; as result of this, the pollens fall down. Is this behaviour known? What is the advantage for the fly?
Comments are very much appreciated. Muhabbet

Posted by Cesa on 03-10-2010 20:19

Cesa wrote:
Hello,
This syrphid is from Black Sea coast in September 2010. I ask for (1) its identification, (2) meaning this behaviour. It presses with its forelegs the flower from both sides; as result of this, the pollens fall down. Is this behaviour known? What is the advantage for the fly?
Comments are very much appreciated. Muhabbet

Posted by Paul Beuk on 04-10-2010 09:02

The fly is a Melanostoma. I have not heared of this behaviour before but I think the genus has pollen eaters so it might be a way to get some pollen out and eat it.

Posted by Cesa on 04-10-2010 10:47

Thank you very much Paul, also for your comments!

Posted by Cesa on 04-10-2010 11:08

Is it mellinum or scalare?