First records of Meromacrus cactorum (Diptera: Syrphidae) from Chile, with new biological data

Abstract

The syrphid genus Meromacrus is widespread in the Neotropics, but its presence in Chile has been confirmed just recently. Adults pollinate, and larvae are saprophagous of vegetal materials. In this note, we report Meromacrus cactorum Ricarte et al. for the first time from Chile. New data on adult habitats and flower visitation are also provided for this Meromacrus. Adults were observed on flowers of the cacti Opuntia ficus-indica, Cumulopuntia sphaerica, and the vulnerable Browningia candelaris. Species distribution and pollinator potential are discussed for M. cactorum.