About Marmalade Hoverfly
A common hoverfly with distinctive double black bands on an orange abdomen. One of the most effective migrant pollinators.
Did You Know?
Migrates in billions from continental Europe to Britain each spring and its larvae eat astronomical numbers of aphids.
How to Identify Marmalade Hoverfly
Marmalade Hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus balteatus) belongs to the order Diptera, family Syrphidae. Adults typically measure 8-12mm.
Marmalade Hoverfly Habitat
Marmalade Hoverfly is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia, Africa. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Marmalade Hoverfly Diet and Feeding
Marmalade Hoverfly feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Where Is Marmalade Hoverfly Found?
Marmalade Hoverfly can be found in Europe, Asia, Africa, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Marmalade Hoverfly can be found
Is Marmalade Hoverfly Dangerous?
Marmalade Hoverfly is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Marmalade Hoverfly Role in Nature
Marmalade Hoverfly plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Marmalade Hoverfly
What does Marmalade Hoverfly look like?
The Marmalade Hoverfly typically measures 8-12mm.
Where is Marmalade Hoverfly found?
The Marmalade Hoverfly is found in Europe, Asia, Africa and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Marmalade Hoverfly eat?
The Marmalade Hoverfly feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Marmalade Hoverfly dangerous to humans?
The Marmalade Hoverfly is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Marmalade Hoverfly?
Migrates in billions from continental Europe to Britain each spring and its larvae eat astronomical numbers of aphids.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Marmalade Hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus balteatus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/marmalade-hoverfly
MLA:
"Marmalade Hoverfly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/marmalade-hoverfly.