Clypeadon
Patton, 1897
Clypeadon is a of solitary in the Crabronidae, Philanthinae. These wasps are known to hunt ( ) as for their . 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 rather than 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 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. are provisioned with ( ).
Host Associations
- Pogonomyrmex - provisioned as larval food
Behavior
visit flowers for nectar. Females hunt to provision underground nest for their . Males have been observed establishing and defending territories around flowering shrubs where females seek nectar.
Ecological Role
of . nectar-feeding contributes to of flowering plants. May influence harvester ant in local .
Similar Taxa
- PhilanthusAlso in Philanthinae but hunts rather than ; commonly called 'beewolves'
- AphilanthopsAlso in Aphilanthopini and hunts , but takes different ant as rather than
- CercerisCrabronid in different tribe (Cercerini) that hunt and other , not