Nysson rusticus

Cresson, 1882

Nysson rusticus is a of solitary in the Crabronidae (formerly placed in Bembicidae). The species occurs in North America and has two recognized : N. r. rusticus and N. r. sphecodoides. Like other members of the Nysson, this species is a nest of ground-nesting crabronid wasps.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Nysson rusticus: //ˈnɪsɔn ˈrʌstɪkəs//

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Identification

Members of the Nysson are small to -sized that can be recognized by their compact body form and reduced . They are distinguished from other Bembicinae by their parasitic lifestyle and associated morphological . Specific diagnostic features for N. rusticus are not well documented in available sources.

Distribution

North America. Records include Canada (British Columbia) and the United States.

Host Associations

Hoplisoides - Nysson are known to parasitize nests of ground-nesting crabronid in the tribe Gorytini, including Hoplisoides. The female enters the nest and lays an on the paralyzed stored for the host's .

Behavior

Females are nest that locate and enter burrows of ground-nesting crabronid to lay on the provisions intended for the 's offspring. The Nysson consumes the host's food supply and typically kills the host larva.

Ecological Role

As a nest , Nysson rusticus contributes to of ground-nesting and represents a trophic link in soil .

Similar Taxa

Nysson neorusticusSimilar name and presumably similar ; distinguished by taxonomic authority (R. Bohart) and likely subtle morphological differences
Other Nysson speciesCongeneric share similar parasitic biology and general body plan; identification to species level requires examination of specific morphological characters

More Details

Taxonomic history

Nysson rusticus was originally described by Cresson in 1882. The was long classified in Bembicidae (sometimes called ), but modern phylogenetic studies place the group within Crabronidae. Two are recognized: N. r. rusticus Cresson, 1882 and N. r. sphecodoides Bradley, 1920.

Collection records

The is represented in museum collections including the UCR Research Museum, which holds curated specimens of the Bembicidae/Crabronidae.