bosfluweelzweefvlieg
VU

bosfluweelzweefvlieg

Parhelophilus frutetorum

UnknownLCEULCEU

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parhelophilus_frutetorum

Overview

The bosfluweelzweefvlieg (Parhelophilus frutetorum) is a distinctive hoverfly species characterized by its fuzzy, velvet-like appearance and yellow-brown coloration with dark markings. Adults are important pollinators of woodland wildflowers and shrubs, while their larvae develop in decaying organic matter in forest floor detritus, contributing to nutrient cycling in woodland ecosystems.

Parhelophilus frutetorum faces significant pressure from habitat loss due to agricultural intensification and urbanization across its European range. The species' dependence on specific flowering plants and traditional farming landscapes makes it particularly vulnerable to changes in land use practices and the decline of semi-natural habitats.

Threat summary

Habitat

This hoverfly species inhabits woodland edges, hedgerows, orchards, and traditional agricultural landscapes with abundant flowering plants. It particularly favors semi-natural habitats including scrubland, parks, and gardens where umbelliferous plants and other nectar sources are available.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is bosfluweelzweefvlieg classified as Vulnerable?
bosfluweelzweefvlieg is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Parhelophilus frutetorum faces significant pressure from habitat loss due to agricultural intensification and urbanization across its European range. The species' dependence on specific flowering plants and traditional farming landscapes makes it particularly vulnerable to changes in land use practices and the decline of semi-natural habitats.
Where does bosfluweelzweefvlieg live?
bosfluweelzweefvlieg occurs in Åland Islands, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, and Czechia (plus 20 other countries). Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to bosfluweelzweefvlieg?
The main threats to bosfluweelzweefvlieg are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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