gewone fluweelzweefvlieg
VU

gewone fluweelzweefvlieg

Parhelophilus versicolor

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

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Parhelophilus versicolor faces significant population declines primarily due to the loss and degradation of its specialized wetland habitats. Agricultural intensification and urban development have reduced the availability of clean, shallow water bodies with emergent vegetation that this hoverfly requires for breeding. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and pesticide use further compromises the quality of remaining suitable habitats, affecting both larval development and adult foraging opportunities.

Threat summary

Habitat

This hoverfly species inhabits clean, shallow freshwater environments including marshes, pond margins, and slow-flowing streams with abundant emergent vegetation. The larvae develop in organically rich sediments of these aquatic habitats, while adults require nearby flowering plants for nectar feeding.

Frequently asked questions

Why is gewone fluweelzweefvlieg classified as Vulnerable?
gewone fluweelzweefvlieg 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 versicolor faces significant population declines primarily due to the loss and degradation of its specialized wetland habitats. Agricultural intensification and urban development have reduced the availability of clean, shallow water bodies with emergent vegetation that this hoverfly requires for breeding. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and pesticide use further compromises the quality of remaining suitable habitats, affecting both larval development and adult foraging opportunities.
Where does gewone fluweelzweefvlieg live?
gewone fluweelzweefvlieg occurs in Åland Islands, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, and Estonia (plus 21 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 gewone fluweelzweefvlieg?
The main threats to gewone fluweelzweefvlieg 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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