Lepidanthrax species

Introduction:

Scaly bee flies of the genus Lepidanthrax are small to medium-sized pollinators widely distributed throughout the arid southwest. Renowned for their intricate scale patterns, agile flight, and hypermetamorphic development, their larvae act as natural parasitoids of ground-nesting insects, playing a vital role in balancing desert ecosystems.
Life Cycle: The immature larvae act as external parasitoids targeting the brood chambers of ground-nesting insects, primarily solitary bees and wasps (Hymenoptera). They look for sunny patches of ground, sandy paths, and sparse vegetation where host insects maintain underground nests.

Size 0.16-0.50 in (0.4-1.3 cm)
Sexual Dimorphism: false
Metamorphosis: complete (egg, larva, pupa, adult)