Cyrtopogon lateralis
Local name: Hvidbåndet rovflue
Photo: Photo: (c) Wonwoong Kim, all rights reserved, uploaded by Wonwoong Kim
Overview
Hvidbåndet rovflue (Cyrtopogon lateralis) is a distinctive robber fly characterized by prominent white bands across its dark body and powerful predatory capabilities. This aerial hunter plays a crucial ecological role as an apex invertebrate predator, capturing other flying insects including bees, wasps, and flies with remarkable precision and speed.
Cyrtopogon lateralis, the white-banded robber fly, faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat loss and degradation of its specialized sandy coastal and heathland environments. Agricultural intensification, urban development, and changes in land management practices have significantly reduced the availability of suitable breeding and foraging habitats. Climate change may further threaten this species by altering the microclimatic conditions it requires.
Habitat
Cyrtopogon lateralis inhabits sun-exposed sandy heathlands, coastal dunes, and open woodland edges with sparse vegetation where it can effectively hunt from prominent perches. The species requires areas with bare ground patches for territorial displays and specific microclimatic conditions found in these transitional ecosystems.
Other threatened species in Asilidae
Threatened in Åland Islands
Frequently asked questions
Why is Hvidbåndet rovflue classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Hvidbåndet rovflue live?
What are the main threats to Hvidbåndet rovflue?
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