Managing infestations of these syrphid flies involves strategies focused on eliminating their food sources and deterring their presence. These flies, often mistaken for small wasps or bees, are typically attracted to gardens by aphids and other soft-bodied insects upon which their larvae prey. Adult hover flies feed on nectar and pollen, making them beneficial pollinators. Therefore, control methods should prioritize targeted approaches that minimize harm to the flies themselves while addressing the underlying issues attracting them.
Effective management offers multiple advantages. While the larval stage helps control damaging garden pests, excessive populations can become a nuisance. Implementing preventative measures and employing judicious control techniques helps maintain a balanced ecosystem within the garden, ensuring that these insects continue to contribute to pollination and pest control without becoming overly abundant. Historically, natural methods, such as attracting natural predators and maintaining plant health, have been preferred approaches to regulate populations.
