CONTRIBUTION TO THE STUDY OF THE FAUNA OF SYRPHIDAE (DIPTERA) IN THE VORONEZH NATURE RESERVE

Abstract

A checklist of hoverflies (Diptera, Syrphidae) from the Voronezh Region (Russia) is presented, based on material collected between 2010 and 2019. The studied material comprises more than 130 specimens belonging to 40 species from 28 genera. Specimens were collected in a variety of natural and anthropogenically transformed habitats, including forests, water bodies, gardens, protected areas, parks, and forest parks. The taxonomic composition of the studied fauna reflects a high diversity of ecological groups. The faunal list includes species whose larvae are aphidophagous, detritivorous, or phytophagous. A considerable proportion of species is associated with humid habitats. Most specimens were collected between May and July, corresponding to the peak activity period of hoverflies. This study represents the important report on the hoverfly fauna of the Voronezh Region and can serve as a basis for further faunistic research. A comparison with the nearest studied region, the Republic of Mordovia, revealed a low degree of similarity in hoverfly fauna. The obtained data contribute to the knowledge of Syrphidae distribution in the central European part of Russia.