Clypeadon
Patton, 1897
Species Guides
2- Clypeadon laticinctus
- Clypeadon sculleni(harvester ant hunter)
Clypeadon is a of solitary in the Crabronidae, Philanthinae. These wasps are known to hunt harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex ) as prey for their larvae. The genus contains nine described species distributed in North America, primarily in western and southwestern regions of the United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Clypeadon: //ˈklɪpiˌæˌdɒn//
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Identification
Members of Clypeadon can be distinguished from related such as Philanthus and Aphilanthops by their specialized association with prey rather than bees or other . The genus belongs to the tribe Aphilanthopini, which contains ant-hunting . Specific morphological characters distinguishing Clypeadon from other Aphilanthopini genera require examination of clypeal structure and other fine details not documented in available sources.
Habitat
Observed in association with saltcedar (Tamarix) trees in Colorado Springs, where were found seeking nectar at blossoms. Likely occurs in arid and semi-arid regions where their prey is abundant, including disturbed situations, riparian corridors, and open areas in western North America.
Distribution
North America. documented from California, Utah, Colorado, and other western and southwestern United States. Specific species distributions include: C. laticinctus (widespread), C. taurulus and C. utahensis (described from western localities), and multiple species described by R. Bohart from California and surrounding regions.
Seasonality
have been observed active in June in Colorado, associated with flowering saltcedar trees.
Diet
feed on nectar. Larvae are provisioned with harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex ).
Host Associations
- Pogonomyrmex - preyharvester ants provisioned as larval food
Behavior
visit flowers for nectar. Females hunt harvester ants to provision underground nest for their larvae. Males have been observed establishing and defending territories around flowering shrubs where females seek nectar.
Ecological Role
of harvester ants. nectar-feeding contributes to pollination of flowering plants. May influence in local .
Similar Taxa
- PhilanthusAlso in Philanthinae but hunts bees rather than ants; commonly called 'beewolves'
- AphilanthopsAlso in Aphilanthopini and hunts ants, but takes different as prey rather than harvester ants
- CercerisCrabronid in different tribe (Cercerini) that hunt weevils and other beetles, not ants