Field Guide to the Flower Flies of Northeastern North America

This is the first comprehensive field guide to the flower flies (also known as hover flies) of northeastern North America. It features 3000+ color photos, multiple images per species, range maps, and information on size, identification features, abundance, flight times, and more.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 14 May 2019
Publisher: Princeton University Press

This groundbreaking guide to flower flies in North America is a comprehensive field guide that covers all 416 species of these important pollinators found north of Tennessee and east of the Dakotas. With over 3,000 color photographs and 400 maps, the guide provides detailed information on the size, identification, abundance, and flight times of each species, as well as notes on behavior, classification, hybridization, habitats, larvae, and more.

Flower flies, along with bees, are our most important pollinators, and their diverse habitats range from backyard gardens to aquatic ecosystems. Despite their often overlooked nature due to their resemblance to bees or wasps, many species of flower flies are distinctive and can be accurately identified. This handy and informative guide aims to teach readers how to recognize and appreciate these fascinating insects.

The guide is organized into 10 chapters, each covering a specific region or group of species. The first chapter provides an introduction to flower flies and their importance as pollinators. It also discusses the challenges of identifying flower flies, as many species mimic bees or wasps.

Chapter 2 covers the eastern United States and Canada, with information on the 107 species of flower flies found in this region. Each species account includes color photographs, range maps, and detailed descriptions of identification features, abundance, and flight times. The chapter also provides insights into the behavior and habitat preferences of these flies.

Chapter 3 focuses on the Midwestern United States and Canada, with information on the 109 species of flower flies found in this region. Similar to Chapter 2, each species account includes color photographs, range maps, and detailed descriptions of identification features, abundance, and flight times. The chapter also explores the hybridization of flower flies in this region.

Chapter 4 covers the Southern United States and Mexico, with information on the 102 species of flower flies found in this region. Each species account includes color photographs, range maps, and detailed descriptions of identification features, abundance, and flight times. The chapter also discusses the importance of flower flies in pollinating native plants and the threats they face from habitat loss and pesticide use.

Chapter 5 covers the Western United States and Canada, with information on the 103 species of flower flies found in this region. Similar to Chapters 2 and 3, each species account includes color photographs, range maps, and detailed descriptions of identification features, abundance, and flight times. The chapter also explores the role of flower flies in pollinating wildflowers and the conservation efforts underway to protect these insects.

Chapter 6 covers the high Arctic and Greenland, with information on the 11 species of flower flies found in this region. Each species account includes color photographs, range maps, and detailed descriptions of identification features, abundance, and flight times. The chapter also highlights the unique adaptations of these flies to the harsh Arctic environment.

Chapter 7 covers the taxonomy and classification of flower flies, with information on the different families, genera, and species of these insects. The chapter also discusses the evolutionary relationships between flower flies and other insects, such as bees and wasps.

Chapter 8 covers the biology and ecology of flower flies, with information on their life cycles. cycle, reproductive strategies, diet, and interactions with other insects. The chapter also discusses the importance of flower flies in pollinating a wide range of plant species, including wildflowers, crops, and trees.

Chapter 9 covers the conservation of flower flies, with information on the threats they face from habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. The chapter also provides suggestions for how individuals and communities can help protect these insects and promote their conservation.

Chapter 10 covers the uses of flower flies in research and education, with information on their taxonomy, behavior, and ecology. The chapter also discusses the importance of these insects in teaching students about the natural world and the importance of conservation.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking guide to flower flies in North America is a must-have resource for anyone interested in discovering the beauty and importance of these insects. With its comprehensive coverage of all 416 species, stunning color photographs, and detailed maps, the guide provides a wealth of information on the size, identification, abundance, and flight times of each species, as well as notes on behavior, classification, hybridization, habitats, larvae, and more. Whether you are an amateur naturalist or a scientist, this guide is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the flower flies of northeastern North America.

Weight: 948g
Dimension: 135 x 211 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691189406