Megasyrphus erratica (Linnaeus, 1758)

Nomenclature:

Syrphus annulipes Zetterstedt in Coe (1953), Didea annulipes (Zetterstedt) in Rotheray (1993), Megasyrphus annulipes (Zetterstedt) in Stubbs & Falk (1983).

Biology & ecology:

The larva is aphidophagous, and usually associated with conifers (Abies, Picea and Pinus), although it is also known to feed on other arboreal aphids such as those on sallows Salix sp. Adults are often associated with open rides and glades in conifer plantations, where they visit a wide range of flowers. They are easily confused with Syrphus in the field, but the thorax is quite noticeably blacker and shiny, and in life the markings are orange rather than yellow.

Distribution:

Primarily a northern and western species that is associated with conifer plantations.

Status & conservation:

The frequency of occurrence has varied considerably, but there is a significant downward trend over the past 35 years.