Zodion

head of Zodion

Introduction

Zodion are small greyish Conopids, with single bent in their long snout. They inhabit dry grassland habitats. Most often, they are found visiting flowers. Sweeping low grass vegetation with a net may also render Zodion. Their larvae are endoparasites of Halictus-bees.

Key

1.a. Legs blackish, femora partly pale; anus black; antennae black or 3rd segment reddish -> 2

1.b Legs reddish; anus red; antennae red -> 3

2.a. Antennae black; wing: cell R closed far before wing border. 4-5 mm. NL, B, D -> Zodion notatum Meigen

2.b. Antennae partly reddish; wing: cell R closed near wing border or just open. 4.5-9 mm. NL, B, D -> Zodion cinereum Fabricius

3.a. Abdomen with depressed dots, greyish dusted; wing: cell R open. 7.5-8 mm. D. -> Zodion carceli Robineau-Desvoidy

3.b. Abdomen without depressed dots, reddish or yellowish; wing: cell R closed. 6-9 mm. Middle and Southern Europe. -> Zodion erythrurum Rondani

Literature

Van Veen M. 1984. De Blaaskopvliegen en roofvliegen van Nederland en België. Jeugdbondsuitgeverij, Utrecht.

Last updated 24.10.2004