Other Common Names
H. robustum (H. robustus) is sometimes called the bomber fly.
Explanation of Names
Author of genus is Macquart, 1848.
Identification
long proboscis similar to Bombylius but head is wider and rear margin of eye is indented in center (sinuous).
Season
Noted in May (guide images from Alabama, North Carolina).
Life Cycle
H. robustum reported to be a parasitoid of hymenoptera, including Ammophila and the alfalfa bee, Nomia melanderi.
Internet References
adult image and behavioral description of
H. robustum (Insects of Torrey Pines State Reserve, California)
adult image of
H. croceum (Eastern Illinois U.)
North Carolina State University Entomology Collection lists 4 specimens of H. robustus, but none listed from that state.
