Anthrax analis, the black bee fly, is a North American species of bee fly in the family Bombyliidae.[1] It is a pollinator as well as a parasitoid whose hosts are various species of tiger beetles (genus Cicindela),[2] [3] and likely solitary bees as well.
Drawn to the bright colors and unique shapes of flowers, the black bee fly feeds on pollen and nectar, like bees. While feeding, Anthrax analis gathers pollen on its body and transfers it between blooms, aiding in the plant's reproductive process.[4]
Egg — The life cycle of Anthrax analis begins with the egg. After fertilization, the adult black bee fly lays its eggs on soil near the nests of tiger beetles, which their larvae will parasitize. These tiny, oval-shaped eggs are often camouflaged to blend in with the environment. The strategic placement of eggs ensures that once they hatch, the larvae will have direct access to their prey.
Larva — Upon hatching, the larvae resemble small worms, lacking wings and having soft bodies. They begin their parasitic behavior by invading the nearby host nests, feeding either on the host beetle larvae. As they grow, the larvae move through the nest, continuing to feed and molt several times. Their primary function during this stage is to gather enough nutrients to support their development into the pupal stage.
Pupal — After the larval stage, the black bee fly undergoes pupation, typically occurring within the host burrows or in the soil nearby. During this stage, although the pupa remains externally inactive, its body is undergoing significant internal transformations. The pupal case is often hidden for protection, either buried underground or camouflaged.
Adult — Emerging from the pupa, the adult black bee fly is characterized by fully formed and hardened body structures, wings, and functional reproductive organs. Adult female A. analis are commonly seen hovering near the entrances to tiger beetle nests, occasionally ovipositing eggs near the beetle larvae.
A. analis can be found throughout North America. Observations are specifically concentrated in Florida and other states along the east coast of the United States, as well as southern Ontario and Quebec, and parts of Mexico.[5]
The Black Bee Fly is not to be confused with various other bee fly species, including the Sinuous bee fly Hemipenthes sinuosa, Anthrax argyropygus, Ins celeris, Anthrax aterrimus, Thyridanthrax atratus, the White-faced bee fly Ogcodocera leucoprocta, the American Morio bee fly Hemipenthes morioides, and the Black Banded bee fly Hemipenthes morio.