Superb Ant-hill Hoverfly vs Alpine Soldierfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Superb Ant-hill Hoverfly | Alpine Soldierfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xanthogramma pedissequum | Oxycera morrisii |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Syrphidae | Stratiomyidae |
| Size | 10-14 mm | 5-7 mm body length |
| Habitat | Heathland | Mountains |
| Diet | Root Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | British Isles, Alps, Northern Europe |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Least Concern |
Superb Ant-hill Hoverfly
A striking yellow-and-black hoverfly that mimics a wasp. Larvae develop inside ant nests where they feed on root aphids tended by the ants. A declining species in parts of its range.
Did You Know?
Larvae live inside ant nests and feed on the root aphids that ants keep as 'livestock'.
Alpine Soldierfly
A small, brightly patterned soldierfly found near mountain springs and seepages. Its larvae develop in calcareous spring water at high elevations.
Did You Know?
Its larvae encrust themselves with calcium carbonate from the mineral-rich spring water.