Bembicinae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Bembicinae: /bɛmˈbɪsɪniː/

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Summary

The Bembicinae is a diverse subfamily of crabronid wasps comprising approximately 280 species in 35 genera in North America and around 1700 species worldwide. They are notable for their nesting behavior in sandy soils and their role as both nest provisioners and kleptoparasites.

Physical Characteristics

Mesonotum almost always expanded laterally into laminae overlying the bases of the tegulae; jugal lobe of the hind wing shorter than the submedian cell; forewings have three submarginal cells; all except Bembicini have two apical spurs on the middle tibiae.

Identification Tips

Look for the laterally expanded mesonotum and the specific wing structure, particularly the three submarginal cells in the forewings.

Habitat

Bembicinae are primarily ground-nesters found in sandy soils.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution with over 1700 species in more than 80 genera.

Diet

Provision their nests with various insects including Diptera, Orthoptera, Hemiptera, Lepidoptera, and Odonata.

Life Cycle

Females dig ground nests and provision them with prey; some species are kleptoparasites of other Bembicinae.

Reproduction

Females can be solitary nest provisioners or brood parasites.

Ecosystem Role

As predators of various insects, they play a significant role in controlling insect populations.

Collecting Methods

• Netting adults
• Soil sampling for nests

Preservation Methods

• Pinning adults
• Freezing for temporary storage

Evolution

Originally part of the Sphecidae family, later treated as a separate family, and now included in the Crabronidae family again.

Similar Taxa

• Crabronidae
• Sphecidae

Misconceptions

Some may confuse them with other wasps due to their similar appearance and nesting behaviors.

Tags

• Bembicinae
• Hymenoptera
• Crabronidae
• wasps