Virtual Exhibit on Canada´s Biodiversity

	Habitat Adults: terrestrial Immatures: terrestrial Feeding Habits Adults: nectar and pollen feeding Immatures: parasitoid Size: 3 to 15 mm Flight : strong flier North American Species: 1200	Diptera Tachinidae Tachinid flies Front Wings: membranous Hind Wings: reduced to halteres Mouthparts: sponging Antenna Length: shorter than body Antenna Shape: straight Front Legs: unmodified Hind Legs: unmodified Special Characteristics: Tachinidae are small to large flies, usually dark coloured with many bristles on the body. There is a well developed subscutellum between the thorax and abdomen and they also have a well developed calypter at the base of each wing.
	Comments: Larvae are all internal parasitoids of other insects, especially Lepidoptera. They are beneficial in killing many insect pests. Adults are often found at flowers or resting on vegetation.

	Species: Bombyliopsis abrupta (Wiedemann) Common Name: Feeding Habits: The larvae are internal parasites of Lepidoptera caterpillars. The adults feed on nectar. Distribution: British Columbia to Nova Scotia. Comments: This species is common around flowers in meadows and fields.