Flower flies are members of the Syrphid Fly Family (Syrphidae). Many species of flower flies have a superficial resemblance to wasps, but unlike wasps, these flies do not sting, and their wasp-like appearance is merely a protective ruse to keep potential predators away.

These beneficial insects are important pollinators of many species of native, flowering plants. Apache Plume (Fallugia paradoxa) flowers are very popular with flower flies, and these flies appear to be this native shrub's major pollinator.