Arthropods Daily – Issue No. 512

Hoverflies are a diverse family of insects known for their mimicry of wasps and bees. They range in size, from small, elongated species to large, hairy ones. They have a single pair of functional wings and feed on nectar and pollen. Hoverflies play a crucial role in pollination, visiting a wide range of flowers, with some species being highly selective. They are also beneficial to farmers and gardeners as their larvae feed on aphids and other pests. Hoverflies are found in various habitats worldwide, and their fossils date back to the Eocene period. They are often used in biological control and can filter and purify water. Overall, hoverflies are an important group of pollinators and natural pest controllers.