There are many insects, billions of species, all over the world. They were one of the first animals to appear, and also one of the ones that have had the most changes throughout their evolution. Among all of them, there are some that are very special for the garden: the hoverflies.
In general, any small critter is not welcome, since the first thing we think about is that they are going to harm the plants. But this, friends, is not so. Or not always. Each animal has its role in the ecosystem, and that of our protagonists you will surely love it.
Table of Contents
- 1 What are they?
- 2 What benefits do they have in the garden?
What are they?
Hoverflies are insects known as brachycephalic dipterans that, once adults, feed on the nectar of flowers. The size varies a lot, not in vain, there are about 5400 species: they can measure from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. The colors that predominate on its body are yellow, orange or brown, often with marked bands on the abdomen.
Their appearance is very similar to that of bees and wasps, but unlike these they only have one pair of wings.
What benefits do they have in the garden?
For the garden … and for plants everywhere . They are very beneficial, since the females leave the eggs on the leaves to begin with. Once they hatch, larvae feed on aphids and other soft insects there may be. Thus they become pupae, and when they reach adulthood, they pollinate the flowers.
And of course, with pollination there are fruits … and seeds. So thanks to them we can not only enjoy healthier and more protected crops, but also we will not have to spend money on new specimens.
What do you think of this article? Have you seen any in the orchard, patio or garden?
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