Eristalinus Sapphirinus and Eristalinus Brunettii

Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) recently discovered two new species of hoverflies, named Eristalinus sapphirinus and Eristalinus brunettii, from the Gangetic Plains of West Bengal.

About Eristalinus Sapphirinus and Eristalinus Brunettii

• Eristalinus sapphirinus and Eristalinus brunettii are two newly discovered species of hoverflies.
• These species were found in the Gangetic Plains of West Bengal.
• Eristalinus sapphirinus has been named after its striking sapphire-blue metallic colouration.
• Eristalinus brunettii has been named in honour of entomologist Enrico Adelelmo Brunetti for his significant historical contribution to the study of Indian Diptera or flies.
• This discovery increases the known diversity of the Eristalinus genus in India.
• The last major taxonomic contribution to this group dates back to 1923.
• Species of the Eristalinus genus support ecosystems during two different life stages.
• In the adult stage, they act as important pollinators for wild and cultivated plants.
• In the larval stage, they are commonly known as rat-tailed maggots.
• Their larvae develop in aquatic habitats, where they help decompose organic matter and recycle essential nutrients.

What are Hoverflies?

• Hoverflies, also known as flower flies or drone flies, are beneficial insects commonly seen in large numbers during spring and summer.
• They belong to the order Diptera and the family Syrphidae.
• Hoverflies are often mistaken for bees or wasps, which may create unnecessary fear of stings.
• However, hoverflies do not have stingers.
• They can be distinguished from bees and wasps by their single pair of wings, while bees and wasps have two pairs of wings.
• Hoverflies have a typical fly-like head with short antennae and bulbous eyes.
• Adult hoverflies are usually 4–10 mm long and have dark, flattened bodies with black and yellow markings.
• During flight, many hoverflies show a typical hovering movement over objects and also move quickly to and fro.
• Hoverflies are among the most important pollinators globally and provide pollination services to many crops and natural vegetation.