Tachytes

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tachytes: //ˈtæk.ɪ.tiːz//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Summary

Tachytes is a genus of predatory, solitary wasps with about 300 species worldwide. They exhibit unique behaviors such as hilltopping and possess distinctive physical traits that resemble bees. They play a significant ecological role as predators of various Orthoptera species.

Physical Characteristics

Adults are typically black, with light or clear wings, and sometimes a red or brown gaster or legs. They are about 12 mm long but can range from 4 mm to 24 mm. Many species have green eyes and often possess short golden hairs with a round build, resembling bees.

Identification Tips

Some species have very dark eyes; females may exhibit modified flagellomeres in males.

Habitat

Nests in sand, often found in areas where Orthoptera are abundant.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution throughout temperate and tropical regions.

Diet

Predominantly predate on Orthoptera (grasshoppers and katydids), particularly from the families Acrididae, Tettigoniidae, Tetrigidae, and Tridactylidae.

Life Cycle

Females capture prey, sting to paralyze it, and seal it in a burrow with an egg; the larva consumes the prey during development.

Reproduction

The female seals the prey in a burrow along with an egg for the larvae to consume after hatching.

Ecosystem Role

Predatory wasps, controlling populations of grasshoppers and katydids.

Tags

• Hymenoptera
• Crabronidae
• predatory wasps
• Orthoptera
• wasp behavior