Title: A Comprehensive Guide to Syrphidae of Europe: Key to TribesIntroduction:The Syrphidae family, commonly known as hoverflies or flower flies, is a diverse group of insects found across Europe. With their striking resemblance to bees and wasps, these harmless creatures play a crucial role in pollination and pest control. In this article, we will explore the various tribes within the Syrphidae family found in Europe, providing you with a comprehensive guide to their identification and characteristics.
1. The Eristalini Tribe
The Eristalini tribe is one of the largest and most diverse tribes of Syrphidae in Europe. These hoverflies are known for their bee or wasp mimicry, often making them difficult to distinguish from their stinging counterparts. However, a closer look reveals their distinctive characteristics, such as a spurious vein in their wings and a unique pattern of body hairs.
1.1 Genus Eristalis
Within the Eristalini tribe, the genus Eristalis is particularly noteworthy. These hoverflies are commonly referred to as drone flies due to their resemblance to male honeybees or drone ants. They can be identified by their large compound eyes, short antennae, and banded abdomen. Eristalis species are important pollinators, making them a welcome visitor in gardens and natural habitats alike.
2. The Episyrphini Tribe
The Episyrphini tribe is another significant group of hoverflies in Europe. These flies are known for their striking yellow and black coloration, closely resembling bees from the Bombus genus. However, upon closer inspection, their distinct characteristics become evident.
2.1 Genus Episyrphus
The genus Episyrphus, found within the Episyrphini tribe, is commonly known as the marmalade hoverfly. These hoverflies have a unique orange-brown color pattern, often resembling a wasp. They can be spotted in various habitats, including gardens, meadows, and woodland edges. Episyrphus species are important pollinators and are widely distributed throughout Europe.
3. The Syrphini Tribe
The Syrphini tribe encompasses a diverse range of hoverflies found in Europe. These flies exhibit a wide array of color patterns, making them fascinating subjects for observation and study.
3.1 Genus Syrphus
The genus Syrphus is a prominent group within the Syrphini tribe. These hoverflies are characterized by their striking black and yellow markings, often resembling bees or wasps. They can be found in various habitats, including gardens, grasslands, and forests. Syrphus species are valuable pollinators and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.Conclusion:Hoverflies, belonging to the Syrphidae family, are fascinating insects found throughout Europe. Understanding the key tribes within this family, such as the Eristalini, Episyrphini, and Syrphini, allows us to appreciate their diversity and ecological significance. By mimicking bees and wasps, these hoverflies contribute to pollination and pest control in our ecosystems, making them an essential part of our natural world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I attract hoverflies to my garden?Hoverflies are attracted to a variety of flowers, especially those rich in nectar and pollen. Planting a diverse range of flowering plants, such as marigolds, lavender, and daisies, can help attract hoverflies to your garden.2. Are hoverflies harmful to humans or plants?No, hoverflies are harmless to humans and plants. In fact, they are beneficial insects that aid in pollination and help control populations of aphids and other garden pests.3. How can I differentiate hoverflies from bees or wasps?While hoverflies may resemble bees or wasps, they lack stingers and have different body shapes. Additionally, hoverflies are often observed hovering in mid-air, while bees and wasps tend to fly in a more direct manner.4. Can hoverflies be kept as pets?Hoverflies are wild insects and are best appreciated in their natural habitats. It is not recommended to keep them as pets, as they have specific ecological roles in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.5. Are hoverflies found only in Europe?Hoverflies are found worldwide, but this article specifically focuses on the Syrphidae family in Europe. Different regions may have their own unique species and tribes of hoverflies.