Eupeodes latifasciatus (Macquart, 1829)

Nomenclature:

Syrphus latifasciatus Macquart in Coe (1953), Metasyrphus latifasciatus (Macquart) in Stubbs & Falk (1983).

Biology & ecology:

The larva has been found feeding on root aphids. In laboratory cultures it will feed on a wide range of aphids associated with low growing herbs and shrubs. Generally found in wetland situations, with a preference for wet meadows with Juncus or other lush vegetation. Adults visit a range of white and yellow flowers of low growing species, often in the vicinity of water.

Distribution:

Widely distributed but scarce, with the number of records varying greatly from year to year. This suggests that it may be a migrant, or at least boosted in abundance in some years by immigration. There is a heavier concentration of records south of the southern uplands of Scotland.

Status & conservation:

No obvious trend in the frequency of occurrence, but occasionally much more frequent than usual.