About Soldier Fly
A brightly colored soldier fly with aquatic larvae that filter-feed in ponds.
Did You Know?
Larvae float at the surface and breathe through a rosette of hydrophobic tail hairs.
How to Identify Soldier Fly
Soldier Fly (Odontomyia tigrina) belongs to the order Diptera, family Stratiomyidae. Adults typically measure 8-12 mm.
Soldier Fly Habitat
Soldier Fly is found in ponds & lakes habitats, particularly across Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Soldier Fly Diet and Feeding
Soldier Fly feeds on pollen collected from flowers. As a pollen feeder, it plays a role in pollination, helping to fertilise plants as it moves from flower to flower.
Where Is Soldier Fly Found?
Soldier Fly can be found in Europe, where it inhabits ponds & lakes environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Soldier Fly can be found
Is Soldier Fly Dangerous?
Soldier Fly 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.
Soldier Fly Role in Nature
Soldier Fly 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 Soldier Fly
What does Soldier Fly look like?
The Soldier Fly typically measures 8-12 mm.
Where is Soldier Fly found?
The Soldier Fly is found in Europe and typically inhabits ponds & lakes environments.
What does Soldier Fly eat?
The Soldier Fly feeds on pollen collected from flowers.
Is Soldier Fly dangerous to humans?
The Soldier Fly is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Soldier Fly?
Larvae float at the surface and breathe through a rosette of hydrophobic tail hairs.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Soldier Fly (Odontomyia tigrina). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/soldier-fly
MLA:
"Soldier Fly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/soldier-fly.