Clitemnestra bipunctata

(Say, 1824)

Clitemnestra bipunctata is a small sand in the Crabronidae, measuring approximately 5-6 millimeters in body length. The was formerly classified under the Ochleroptera, but was merged into Clitemnestra by Bohart in 2000. It is widely distributed across North America and has been recorded from Cuba.

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Pronunciation

How to pronounce Clitemnestra bipunctata: /ˌklaɪˈtɛm.nɛs.trə baɪˌpʌŋkˈtɑː.tə/

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Identification

Distinguished from similar small crabronid by its diminutive size (5-6 mm body length) and the two-spotted pattern suggested by its specific epithet. Formerly placed in Ochleroptera, now recognized as Clitemnestra based on morphological revisions by Bohart (2000).

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Habitat

Found in association with colonies where feed on . Nests are excavated in bare soil, typically near the top of vertical banks.

Distribution

North America (widespread across most of the United States) and Cuba (Middle America).

Diet

feed on from . Females hunt , , , and to provision nests.

Life Cycle

Nests are burrows dug in bare soil to depths of 9-20 cm, with 1-3 branching from the main tunnel. Each cell measures approximately 6 x 10 mm and is provisioned with 6-18 paralyzed items.

Behavior

frequently observed feeding on . Females are solitary nesters that hunt and paralyze homopteran .

Ecological Role

of various including (), (), (), and related . Provides natural pest control in agricultural and natural settings.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Clitemnestra speciesSimilar small size and general ; identification requires examination of specific markings and .
  • Formerly Ochleroptera bipunctataSame under previous ; literature prior to 2000 may use this name.

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