Hoverfly on Sea Holly (Eryngium planum 'Blaukappe')
Hoverflies feed mainly on nectar and pollen. However, the larvae (maggots) eat a wide range of foods and in some species, the larvae are saprotrophs, eating decaying plant and animal matter in the soil or in ponds and streams. In other species, the larvae are insectivores and prey on aphids, thrips, and other plant-sucking insects. Hoverflies are common throughout the world and can be found on all continents except Antarctica. They are harmless to most other animals despite their mimicry of more dangerous wasps and bees, which serves to ward off predators. Eryngium planum 'Blaukappe' (Sea Holly) is a hardy perennial and flowers from July through to September.
Size: 3455px × 5184px
Location: Hampshire, England, UK
Photo credit: © Kathryn Truepenny / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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