Oxybelus emarginatus
Say, 1837
square-headed wasp
Oxybelus emarginatus is a of square-headed wasp in the Crabronidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1837. The Oxybelus comprises predatory commonly known as 'fly hunters' that provision their nests with paralyzed flies for their larvae. This species is found in North America, with records from the United States and Canada including Alberta.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Oxybelus emarginatus: /ˌɒksɪˈbiːləs ˌɛmɑːdʒɪˈneɪtəs/
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Distribution
North America; confirmed records from the United States and Canada including the province of Alberta.
Diet
Behavior
Members of the Oxybelus are known as 'fly hunters' and provision their nests with paralyzed flies. The context source notes that male of related may establish territories around nectar sources and defend them from other males.
Ecological Role
of flies; contributes to regulation of dipteran . As a member of the Crabronidae, this participates in the broader of solitary predators.
Similar Taxa
- Other Oxybelus speciesOther members of the Oxybelus share the 'square-headed wasp' and similar fly-hunting ; specific identification requires examination of morphological details not provided in available sources.
- Other CrabronidaeMany crabronid are superficially similar in size and general appearance, but Oxybelus are distinguished by their square-shaped and specialized on flies.
More Details
Taxonomic authority
First described by American entomologist Thomas Say in 1837, making it one of the earlier described in this .
Genus characteristics
The Oxybelus is characterized by a distinctly square or rectangular shape, giving these their . They are solitary nesters that typically excavate burrows in soil or use pre-existing cavities.