A survey of the hoverflies of northeastern Algeria (Diptera: Syrphidae)

Abstract

A survey of the hoverfly fauna of northeastern Algeria was carried out in 1991 and 1992, and seventy-three species recorded. Four species are new for Algeria: Dasysyrphus albostriatus, Chamaesyrphus lusitanicus, Brachypalpus laphriformis and Spilomyia maroccana. The genera Dasysyrphus, Chamaesyrphus and Brachypalpus are new for Algeria. Data on the distribution and the seasonal pattern of each species are provided. Species richness was found highest amongst wetlands (up to 38) and forested hills (up to 29). In contrast, degraded sites held the lowest numbers of hoverflies. Species such as Episyrphus balteatus, Sphaerophoria scripta, Syritta pipiens and Eristalis tenax were widespread and abundant, whereas others were rare (Platycheirus albimanus) or confined to forested hills, such as the North African endemic Volucella liquida. A good knowledge of the Syrphidae will pave the way to a close monitoring of global changes affecting the region and the conservation of an important but much neglected group in one of the foremost biodiversity hotspots of the Maghreb.

Keywords: Syrphids, distribution, biodiversity, conservation, Algeria.