About Pterallastes thoracicus Loew, 1863
Pterallastes thoracicus Loew, 1863, commonly called the goldenback fly, is an uncommon species of syrphid fly that has been observed in central and eastern regions of the United States. Syrphid flies are also known as hoverflies, as they can stay nearly motionless while in flight, and many hoverfly species are mimics of bees. Adult hoverflies of this species are often referred to as flower flies, because they are commonly found on flowers, where they obtain energy-giving nectar and protein-rich pollen. The larvae of Pterallastes thoracicus have not been documented. This species is distributed within the United States.
