margined calligrapher (Toxomerus marginatus) female at Ludwig Preserve IA 854A5574
This margined calligrapher is a miniature fly, feeding here on the pollen from a bloodroot blossom. Those delightful decorations on its abdomen look like they've been drawn on by a calligrapher. That black spot at the back is diagnostic for this species. Females have a space between their eyes at the top - males eyes would touch. Their larvae eat harmful plant pests like aphids and thrips.
margined calligrapher (Toxomerus marginatus) female at Ludwig Preserve IA 854A5574
This margined calligrapher is a miniature fly, feeding here on the pollen from a bloodroot blossom. Those delightful decorations on its abdomen look like they've been drawn on by a calligrapher. That black spot at the back is diagnostic for this species. Females have a space between their eyes at the top - males eyes would touch. Their larvae eat harmful plant pests like aphids and thrips.