Attracted to feed, not to be fed upon - On the biology of Toxomerus basalis (Walker, 1836), the kleptoparasitic 'sundew flower fly' (Diptera: Syrphidae)

Abstract

The complete life history of the kleptoparasitic 'sundew flower fly', Toxomerus basalis, is presented and illustrated. Adults of this species are photographed alive for the first time, including video recordings of larval and adult behaviour. Adult flies of both sexes visit Drosera (sundews) and show territorial behaviour around the plants, avoiding the dangerous sticky traps and demonstrating recognition of their larval host plant. Females lay eggs directly on non-sticky parts of the Drosera host plants, such as on the lower surface of the leaves and flower stalks, but apparently also on other plants growing in close proximity with the sundews.