Hoverfly

2. What are the primary ecological roles of hoverflies?

• Hoverflies primarily feed on tree bark.
• Hoverflies are known for their role in soil erosion.
• Hoverflies are primary pollinators and biological control agents.
• Hoverflies are major predators of large mammals.

How important are hoverflies for pollination compared to honeybees?

What plants are typically pollinated by hoverflies?

• Aquatic plants like water lilies
• Umbellifers (like dill and fennel), Asteraceae (like daisies and sunflowers), and various fruit trees.
• Conifers like pine and spruce
• Cacti and succulents

What threats do hoverflies face in the UK and globally?

• Natural predators, improved farming practices, urbanization, and reduced climate variability.
• Habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and competition with invasive species.
• Increased food supply, habitat expansion, reduced pollution, and better weather conditions.
• Enhanced biodiversity, government protection, urban development, and agricultural growth.

How can hoverfly populations be supported?

• Install artificial lighting in gardens
• Plant only native grasses
• Increase the use of chemical fertilizers
• Support hoverfly populations by planting diverse flowers, reducing pesticides, and providing water sources.