HYBOTID DANCE FLY

HYBOTID DANCE FLY

Hybotidae sp.
HYBOTID DANCE FLY FAMILY (Hybotidae)

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This tiny fly is approximately 3/16 inch (5 mm) in length. It has very large red eyes touching at the top, characteristic of male flies in this family. The thorax is dark brown and humped giving it a hunched-back appearance. The abdomen is brown. The legs are tan.  This fly was identified by David E. Reed.

 

The frequency of occurrence in this area is not known. The individual shown was photographed in June 2016 during an insect survey at Fontenelle Forest. It can be seen sitting on vegetation or nectaring on flowers.

 

This fly resembles a tiny robberfly. Nearly all dance flies are predatory, mostly on other flies. All larvae are predators.

 

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