Ethology of Holopogon phaeonotus Loew, 1874 (Diptera: Asilidae) in Northeastern Florida, U.S.A.

Abstract

Holopogon phaeonotus Loew, 1874 foraged from plant twig tips, capturing prey in flight, and immobilized them at the feeding site. Identified prey came from six insect orders: Coleoptera (4.0%), Diptera (33.0%), Hemiptera (17.0%), Hymenoptera (20.0%), Psocoptera (23.0%), and Thysanoptera (3.0%). Mating was preceded by male courtship and was in the tail-to-tail position. Eggs were laid in the soil, in the shade of overhanging vegetation and fallen dried oak leaves. There was a distinct daily rhythm of activity for feeding, mating, and oviposition. Grooming behavior was not common but when it did occur, resembled that described for other species of Asilidae. Information is also provided on habitat, resting behavior, and predators.