Chrysopilus
ExploreInsects
Chrysopilus
chrysopilus
Chrysopilus is a fascinating insect that loves to fly around gardens and meadows. With its interesting shape and bright colors, it brings joy to those who spot it!
Habitat: Chrysopilus typically lives in gardens, fields, and meadows where flowers bloom.
Appearance
The Chrysopilus is a slender fly with a distinctive metallic or golden sheen on its body, which can appear coppery or greenish depending on the species. Its long, delicate legs and clear wings are often spread slightly at rest, setting it apart from many other flies.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderDipteraFamilyRhagionidaeGenusChrysopilus
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Baby Chrysopilus (larvae) live as tiny predators hidden in damp soil and leaf litter!
Many Chrysopilus species have very short antennae, making their heads look quite unique!
Their name means "golden hair" from Greek, for their often shiny, metallic bodies!
Unlike house flies, adult Chrysopilus often rests with its clear wings spread out to the sides!
Special abilities
Ability
Soil Hunter
Chrysopilus larvae can hunt tiny insects like springtails underground because of their strong mouthparts, helping to control soil pests.
Ability
Nectar Sipper
Adult Chrysopilus has a specialized proboscis that helps them sip nectar from flowers, providing energy for their active flight.
Ability
Quick Darting Flight
Chrysopilus can hover and dart rapidly in the air, allowing them to escape predators and find mates efficiently in dense vegetation.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 8-20 mm
- Size
- 4-10 mm
- Lifespan
- 14-45 days
- Flight Speed
- 10 km/h
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Adults sip flower nectar, while their larvae are tiny hunters of small soil insects and decaying matter!
Age differences: Larvae are predatory, consuming small soil invertebrates and decaying matter; adults primarily feed on nectar.
Primary Foods
- flower nectar
- springtail species
- mite species
- small insect larvae
- decaying organic matter
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
pollinates
Canada Goldenrod
Solidago canadensis
Adults visit flowers for nectar.
eaten by
European Garden Spider
Araneus diadematus
Spiders often catch adult Chrysopilus.
eaten by
Red Wood Ant
Formica rufa
Ants can prey on Chrysopilus larvae.
hunts
Springtail species
Folsomia candida
Larvae prey on these common soil invertebrates.
Traits
Social
Social animals live in organized groups, cooperating for survival benefits such as foraging, defense, and raising offspring.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Carnivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of animal tissue.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
Flower HunterGoldenflyLong-legged Fly
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
No special safety notes yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chrysopilus's wingspan?
8-20 mm
How big is Chrysopilus?
4-10 mm
How long does Chrysopilus live?
14-45 days
How fast can Chrysopilus fly?
10 km/h
What does Chrysopilus eat?
Adults sip flower nectar, while their larvae are tiny hunters of small soil insects and decaying matter!
Where is Chrysopilus usually found?
Chrysopilus typically lives in gardens, fields, and meadows where flowers bloom.
How does Chrysopilus hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Chrysopilus have?
6
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