Chrysurissa densa

(Cresson, 1865)

Chrysurissa densa is a of cuckoo wasp in the Chrysididae. It is known as a of the nests of pollen wasps in the Pseudomasaris, specifically targeting the mud nests of Pseudomasaris vespoides. The species was first described by Cresson in 1865. Like other cuckoo wasps, females lay their in the nests of , where their larvae consume the pollen and nectar provisions intended for the host's offspring.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chrysurissa densa: /kɹɪˈsʊɹɪsə ˈdɛn.sə/

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Distribution

Recorded in western North America, including Arizona. The ' distribution corresponds to that of its , Pseudomasaris vespoides, which ranges from Washington state south to California, Arizona, and New Mexico, and east to Wyoming, Nebraska, and South Dakota.

Host Associations

Pseudomasaris vespoides - nest Parasitizes the mud nests attached to twigs constructed by this pollen wasp

Behavior

Females parasitize the nests of pollen wasps by laying in the 's . The larvae develop by consuming the pollen and nectar provisions stored by the host for its own offspring.

Ecological Role

Acts as a nest (cuckoo wasp) of solitary pollen wasps, representing a trophic interaction within hymenopteran .

More Details

Host nest characteristics

The Pseudomasaris vespoides attaches its mud nests to twigs out in the open, unlike most other Pseudomasaris that adhere nests beneath stones or other sheltered situations. This exposed nest placement may influence rates by Chrysurissa densa.