robber fly (Promachus yesonicus)
A specific species of robber fly found in Japan. The name is typically written in katakana.
The robber fly (Promachus yesonicus) is a large fly that preys on other insects.
Katakana spelling is standard for this insect name; usually written in kana.
Kanji spelling is rare and may not be widely recognized; the katakana form is strongly preferred.
The name is written 塩屋虻; the male’s conspicuous white hairs at the tip of the abdomen suggested the white salt carried or handled by a traditional salt merchant.