Interactions

     The males are very territorial, so net adults in the population are usually limited. Competitively speaking, any stray male that wanders into another's territory is either chased or captured (Mahr S. 2009).

     Promachus vertebratus tend to respond to moving prey and are particularly attracted to other flying insects that they can chase down and consume. When disturbed or attacking prey, they normally fly only a short distance; many produce a loud buzz when flying (Mahr S. 2009). Virtually any flying insect is a potential prey for these robber flies. They exemplify what it means to be a predatory hunter; are consciously on the chase for new prey.

Picture of a male Promachus vertebratus with wings closed, taken from BugGuide.



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