Sphenometopa tergata
(Coquillett, 1895)
satellite fly
Sphenometopa tergata is a satellite fly in the Sarcophagidae, Miltogramminae. It is known to parasitize the nests of - kidnapping in the Aphilanthops, particularly A. frigidus. The has been observed loitering near nest of these solitary wasps, suggesting kleptoparasitic or . Its taxonomic history includes transfer from the genus Araba to Sphenometopa.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sphenometopa tergata: //ˌsfɛnoʊmɛˈtoʊpə tɛrˈɡɑːtə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Miltogramminae by genitalic characters; external requires expert examination for reliable identification. Closely related to Euaraba tergata (now synonymized or closely allied), with which it shares associations with philanthine .
Habitat
Associated with sandy or loose soil where Aphilanthops construct nest burrows. Found in proximity to wasp nest rather than independent of host presence.
Distribution
North America; documented in association with Aphilanthops across the continent. Specific locality records sparse in available sources.
Seasonality
Active during the nesting period of ; in northern regions, this corresponds to late June through mid-August when A. frigidus provisions nests.
Host Associations
- Aphilanthops frigidus - Observed loitering near nest ; suspected to cause nest failure through larviposition on stored prey or direct of larvae
Life Cycle
Females larviposit (deposit live larvae rather than ) on prey items being transported by or within nest . Larvae presumably complete development on the stored prey or wasp larvae, though direct observations of larval development are lacking.
Behavior
observed loitering in the vicinity of Aphilanthops nest , consistent with satellite fly strategy of intercepting prey deliveries or entering nests to deposit offspring.
Ecological Role
or kleptoparasite of solitary ; -level impact on wasp reproductive success unknown. Part of the natural enemy complex affecting - kidnapping wasps alongside Senotainia trilineata and Metopia leucocephala.
Similar Taxa
- Senotainia trilineataConfirmed of Aphilanthops with similar ecological role; distinguished by confirmed larviposition on victims during transport and taxonomic placement in Sarcophagidae: Miltogramminae
- Metopia leucocephalaPrime suspect in Aphilanthops nest failure with similar loitering ; Metopia typically have distinctive facial with elongated
- Euaraba tergataFormerly considered distinct; taxonomic relationship unclear but shares -level or -complex association with Sphenometopa tergata and similar associations