Volucella inanis
This record describes Volucella inanis (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Somewhat smaller than the similiar V. zonaria and with yellow rather than chestnut markings on tergite (segment) 2 and more extensive yellow on the underside of the abdomen. It looks more wasp-like than hornet-like. Flower meadows, roadside verges and hedgerows. It can be found from June to September, peaking in early August. This species is a parasite of wasp larvae, including Hornets. Previously found mainly around London, it has been steadily expanding its range northwards and its range now reaches a line from the Wash to the Severn, although even in this area it is quite local, and infrequent much of the time.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Flower meadows, roadside verges and hedgerows.
Seasonal Activity
It can be found from June to September, peaking in early August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
This species is a parasite of wasp larvae, including Hornets.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Previously found mainly around London, it has been steadily expanding its range northwards and its range now reaches a line from the Wash to the Severn, although even in this area it is quite local, and infrequent much of the time.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Volucella inanis. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Diptera includes over 150,000 described species of flies, mosquitoes, and midges. Mosquitoes are the deadliest animal on Earth (CDC). Malaria alone causes ~249 million cases and over 608,000 deaths annually, mostly children under 5 (WHO). Vector-borne diseases account for over 17% of all infectious diseases, causing 700,000+ deaths per year.
Ecological role of the group
Despite their disease impact, flies are critical decomposers and pollinators. Hoverflies alone pollinate hundreds of crop and wildflower species. Flies are also the primary food source for many birds, bats, and fish. Forensic entomology relies heavily on fly species for crime scene analysis.
Economic and practical significance of the group
In the U.S., vector-borne disease cases tripled between 2004-2016, with over 640,000 cases reported in that period (CDC). Tickborne diseases doubled from 22,000 to 48,000 annual reports. Globally, mosquito-borne diseases cost billions in healthcare and lost productivity.
Recorded sources for this group: WHO, CDC, PNAS. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Volucella inanis (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Volucella inanis
What is Volucella inanis?
Volucella inanis is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Volucella inanis found?
Habitat: Flower meadows, roadside verges and hedgerows.
When is Volucella inanis active?
Volucella inanis: seasonal activity - It can be found from June to September, peaking in early August..
What is the life cycle of a Volucella inanis?
This species is a parasite of wasp larvae, including Hornets.