Elampus nitidus
Elampus nitidus is a of cuckoo wasp in the Chrysididae, a group of known for their metallic coloration and kleptoparasitic lifestyle. The species belongs to the Elampus, which contains approximately 18 species distributed across North America. Members of this genus are known to parasitize the nests of other solitary wasps, particularly those in the family Crabronidae.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Elampus nitidus: /ɛˈlæmpəs ˈnɪtɪdəs/
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Ecological Role
Kleptoparasite of solitary nests; specifically known to parasitize nests of sand wasps in the Hoplisoides ( Crabronidae). The female cuckoo wasp enters the nest and lays an in the provisioned ; the resulting larva consumes the host's stored prey and/or the host larva.