Explanation of Names
Specific name "sericeus" is from Greek for silky. (Based on Internet references.)
Identification
Medium-sized robber fly, golden-yellow with elongate abdomen. Compare Diogmites. See Internet references. A. sericeus is the only widespread member of this genus in the east, according to recent classifications.
Range
Includes eastern/central United States and southern Ontario. Reported from Michigan, Ohio, Massachusetts, Kansas, Georgia, North Carolina, Ontario.
Habitat
Meadows, fields, etc. with flowers.
Season
Summer. June (lower elevations, North Carolina). June-July (mountains of North Carolina).
Food
Predatory. Reported to prey on nectar-seeking insects such as butterflies.
Internet References
Giff Beaton Asilinae--photo from Georgia
Jeff Pippen--photo from Michigan
North Carolina State University Entomology lists seven pinned specimens, including from that state.
Robber Flies of Georgia--lists just one species in the genus for the state--result of reclassification of most species, apparently.
four images of Asilus species by various photographers (Herschel Raney's Robberfly site)
live adult image (Tom Schultz, Ohio, Denison U.)
Contributed by
Cotinis on 26 January, 2005 - 4:21pm
Additional contributions by
Robin McLeodLast updated 30 July, 2005 - 9:13am
