Ampulex ferruginea

Bradley, 1934

Ampulex ferruginea is a of cockroach wasp in the Ampulicidae. It is one of two Ampulex species recorded in North America. Like other members of its , it is a that hunts as for its larvae. The species is notably less widespread than its A. canaliculata.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ampulex ferruginea: //æmˈpjuːlɛks fɛrʊˈdʒɪniə//

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Identification

Distinguished from the more widespread Ampulex canaliculata by geographic distribution—A. ferruginea is recorded only from Florida and Texas, while A. canaliculata occurs across the eastern United States west to Wisconsin, Missouri, and Kansas. Both are small (approximately 10–12 mm), -mimicking with spotted wings that appear short relative to body length. Specific morphological differences between the two North American species are not detailed in available sources.

Distribution

Recorded from Florida and Texas, United States. This restricted range contrasts sharply with the widespread distribution of the congeneric A. canaliculata.

Diet

As a in the Ampulex, it hunts as prey. The specific prey for A. ferruginea have not been documented, though related species target wood cockroaches in the genus Parcoblatta.

Host Associations

Similar Taxa

  • Ampulex canaliculataThe only other Ampulex in North America; differs in geographic range (widespread eastern U.S. vs. Florida and Texas only)
  • Ampulex compressaLarger, metallic green emerald cockroach wasp with global distribution; A. ferruginea is smaller and lacks metallic coloration

More Details

Taxonomic note

Ampulicidae was formerly considered a of Sphecidae; the is now recognized as distinct. Only the Ampulex occurs in North America.

Sources and further reading