What are hover flies attracted to? Hover flies, also known as syrphid flies, are fascinating insects that often go unnoticed due to their small size and non-aggressive nature. Despite their unassuming appearance, these flies play a crucial role in the ecosystem as pollinators. Understanding what attracts hover flies can help gardeners and nature enthusiasts create environments that promote their presence and benefit both the flies and the plants they pollinate. In this article, we will explore the various factors that attract hover flies, including their favorite flowers, food sources, and environmental conditions.
Hover flies are primarily attracted to flowers, as they serve as their main food source. These flies are particularly drawn to flowers with a high nectar content, which provides them with the energy they need to fly and forage. Flowers with bright colors, such as yellow, white, and purple, are often more appealing to hover flies. This is because these colors are easily visible to the flies, which rely on their compound eyes to detect movement and color.
In addition to nectar, hover flies are also attracted to flowers with a sweet fragrance. The scent of flowers can be detected by the flies’ antennae, which are equipped with chemoreceptors that allow them to identify and track down food sources. Flowers with strong, sweet scents, such as those found in the Apiaceae (carrot family) and Asteraceae (daisy family), are particularly attractive to hover flies.
Apart from flowers, hover flies are also attracted to decaying organic matter. These flies are decomposers and play a vital role in breaking down dead plants and animals, which helps recycle nutrients back into the soil. Therefore, having a well-maintained compost pile or leaving dead leaves and plant material in your garden can attract hover flies and support their population.
Another factor that attracts hover flies is the presence of their larvae, which are known as “syrphid maggots.” These maggots feed on aphids, which are harmful pests to many garden plants. By attracting hover flies, you are not only providing a food source for the adults but also helping to control aphid populations naturally.
To create an environment that is attractive to hover flies, consider the following tips:
1. Plant a variety of flowers with bright colors and strong scents, particularly those in the Apiaceae and Asteraceae families.
2. Provide a source of decaying organic matter, such as a compost pile or a pile of dead leaves.
3. Avoid using pesticides, as they can harm hover flies and other beneficial insects.
4. Maintain a diverse garden ecosystem by including plants that offer shelter and nesting sites for hover flies.
In conclusion, hover flies are attracted to a variety of factors, including flowers with high nectar content, sweet scents, decaying organic matter, and a diverse garden ecosystem. By understanding what attracts these beneficial insects, you can create a garden that not only supports hover flies but also promotes a healthy and balanced ecosystem.
