Hoverfly on Spiderwort I

A hoverfly from the Syrphidae family feeds on pollen atop a blooming Spiderwort (Tradescantia). Its large, compound eyes, short antennae, and striped abdomen help distinguish it from bees. Though it mimics a bee in appearance, it lacks a stinger and is completely harmless. Hoverflies are excellent pollinators and also help control aphid populations in their larval stage.