Predicting distribution models of two flower flies, Paragus tibialis and Paragus quadrifasciatus (Diptera: Syrphidae) in different climates of Iran

The genus Paragus with more than 50 known species in Iran has a high potential to control pest and concerve pollinator insects. This study was conducted to fill the information gap of the distribution patterns and habitat preferences of the two species, Paragus quadrifasciatus Meigen, 1822 and Paragus tibialis Fallen, 1817in different climates of Iran. The distribution model was prepared based on species presence records besides seven bioclimatic variables and altitudes. The accuracy of the model was measured using the Area Under Curve Index. The Jackknife test showed the mean temperature of warmest quarter and the precipitation of warmest quarter had the most effect on the distribution patterns of P. quadrifasciatus and P. tibialis respectively. The results showed that semi-arid climates with cold winter and warm summer in northern latitudes of Iran were suitable for the presence of both species, the central and southern regions of Iran with very high temperatures were considered as unsuitable areas for the presence of both species. Area Under Curve indices for both P. quadrifasciatus and P. tibialis were 0.86 and 0.9, respectively, implying the high precision and accuracy of the models for predicting the distribution models of both species in this study.