What caused this damage

[Lesinlondon]

I noticed this hoverfly? lying on it's back on the plant. Initially I didn't notice the damage. Closer inspection revealed a Goldenrod Crab Spider close by, but heading away from the hoverfly (prob due to my approach). As I moved over to the right side I noticed the damage. All I could come up with is that the spider had secured the fly, whose struggles (not that I noticed it struggling) had resulted in the damage. This is probably not the reason but has anyone a suggestion? Had something taken a chunk out of it?

Thanks
Les.

[galanthus]

Perhaps it contained a parasite ?

[Lesinlondon]

Thanks galanthus. A parasite that kinda ate its way out you mean. Wow!

Re the spider. These crab spiders would simply capture a victim and bite the neck area I think, quickly putting paid to any need to secure, so I guess it had nothing to do with it.

[galanthus]

Originally Posted by Lesinlondon

Thanks galanthus. A parasite that kinda ate its way out you mean. Wow!

Re the spider. These crab spiders would simply capture a victim and bite the neck area I think, quickly putting paid to any need to secure, so I guess it had nothing to do with it.

Ummmm I could be totally wrong tho soz

[eucera]

Your "hoverfly" is a queen ant I think.