As a horticulture and landscaping expert , I have had the chance to observe and study hoverflies in various mise en scene . These fascinating insects play an important role in the garden ecosystem , as they are natural pollinators and also help check pest populations . One motion that often come up is how long hoverflies stay around .
Hoverflies , like many other worm , have a comparatively short life-time liken to mammals or birds . On average , grownup hoverflies live for about 12 days . However , it is authoritative to take note that this is just an mean , and the literal lifespan can variegate depend on the metal money of hoverfly .
One species of hoverfly that has been found to live longer than average is the Hammerschmidtia ferruginea . These hoverflies have been observed living for up to 55 days . This is quite remarkable considering the comparatively shortsighted lifespans of other hoverfly metal money .
The life of hoverflies is influenced by various factor , let in environmental conditions , handiness of food sources , and predation . For model , hoverflies that have access to abundant nectar sources and suited breeding sites are more probable to have a prospicient lifespan compare to those that present imagination limitation .
In my personal experience , I have notice that hoverflies incline to be more abundant during the warmer months of the class when flowers are in bloom . They are in particular attracted to flowers with candid , shallow blooms that provide easy access to ambrosia . Hoverflies are often attend hovering in mid - air near flowers before landing to feed , hence their name .
During their brusk lifespan , hoverflies go through a complete metamorphosis , starting as egg that are laid on plants . After incubate , they arise into larvae , commonly known as “ rat - tailed maggots , ” which live in water system or damp soil and feed on decompose constitutional matter . The larva then pupate before emerge as adult hoverflies .
Hoverflies are known for their typical appearance , with many species mime bee or white Anglo-Saxon Protestant as a class of protective apery . This avail them deter possible predators , as they are often false for prick insects . However , hoverflies are harmless to humans and do not have stingers .
In improver to their function as pollinators , hoverflies are also beneficial in the garden as natural predators of aphid and other lowly insects . The larvae of hoverflies are voracious eaters and can consume large numbers of aphids , which are common garden pest . This natural pest controller can assist shorten the need for chemical substance insecticides in the garden .
To draw hoverflies to your garden , it is important to put up a diverse reach of bloom works that supply ambrosia throughout the growing season . Some good selection include marigolds , zinnias , cosmos , and alyssum . Creating a home ground with diverse plant specie and deflect the utilisation of chemical pesticides will help support a healthy hoverfly population .
The lifespan of hoverflies can vary depending on the species , with an average lifespan of around 12 day for most grownup hoverflies . However , some species , such as the Hammerschmidtia ferruginea , have been find to live much longer , up to 55 solar day . create a garden environs that provides ample food root and suitable breeding sites can help attract and support hoverflies , which in turn contribute to the overall health and Libra the Balance of the garden ecosystem .
Caroline Bates
