Heterostylum robustum, the bomber fly, s a species of bee fly belonging to the Bombyliidae family. It is found in southwestern Canada, most of the western United States, and Mexico. It is a bomber fly, parasitizing bees and wasps by launching its eggs into their nests. It is the principal parasite of the alkali bee Nomia melanderi, an important alfalfa pollinator across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Wyoming. Other hosts of the fly include solitary bees such as Nomia nevadensis bakeri, Dieunomia triangulifera, Calliopsis anthidia, Nomia scutellaris, and Halictus rubicundus.
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it venomous or poisonous?
We have no record of Bomber fly being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Diptera
- Family
- Bombyliidae
- Genus
- Heterostylum
- Species
- Heterostylum robustum
Found one? Take a photo and B.inomen will suggest what it is, free.
Check your photo