Larra

Definition

A genus of solitary, ground-nesting wasps in the family Crabronidae (Hymenoptera), comprising parasitoid species that hunt orthopteran prey—primarily mole crickets (Gryllotalpidae) and katydids (Tettigoniidae)—to provision subterranean brood cells. Adults are typically robust, fast-flying, and possess modified legs for digging and grappling with prey. The genus is notable in biological control: *Larra bicolor*, native to South America, has been introduced to the southeastern United States to suppress invasive mole crickets (*Scapteriscus* spp.).

Etymology

From the genus name established by Fabricius, 1793; etymology uncertain, possibly from Greek larros (talkative, greedy) or an arbitrary classical formation.

Example

*Larra bicolor* females paralyze mole crickets with a sting to the thoracic ganglia, then drag the immobilized prey into a pre-dug burrow and lay a single egg on the host; the resulting larva consumes the cricket alive.

Synonyms

• Larrada (obsolete)

Related Terms

• Crabronidae
• Sphecidae (sensu lato)
• Mole cricket
• Biological control
• provisioning behavior
• subterranean nest

Usage Notes

The genus was historically placed in Sphecidae; modern phylogenetics places it in Crabronidae. Species boundaries have been confused by extensive synonymy (e.g., *Larra pagana*, *Larra americana* as former names for *L. bicolor*). Do not confuse with *Larridae*, an obsolete family name sometimes applied to related digger wasps.