Clypeadon laticinctus
(Cresson, 1865)
Clypeadon laticinctus is a of solitary in the Crabronidae, tribe Aphilanthopini. The Clypeadon comprises species known as ' hunters' that prey specifically on ants. This species occurs in North America, with distribution records from Canada (British Columbia) and the United States. Like other members of its tribe, it likely exhibits specialized predatory targeting harvester ants.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Clypeadon laticinctus: //klɪˈpiːəˌdɒn ˌlætɪˈsɪŋktəs//
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Distribution
North America; recorded from British Columbia, Canada and the United States.
Diet
Preys on harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex and related ).
Host Associations
- Pogonomyrmex - preyHarvester ants, the primary prey of Clypeadon
Behavior
Females hunt harvester ants as food for their larvae. Males have been observed establishing territories around nectar sources, where they await females and defend against other males.
Ecological Role
of harvester ants; contributes to . may function as when visiting flowers for nectar.
Similar Taxa
- AphilanthopsAlso in tribe Aphilanthopini with similar -hunting ; Clypeadon distinguished by morphological features of the and other structures
- PhilanthusSame (Philanthinae) but different tribe (Philanthini); beewolves prey on bees rather than ants
More Details
Nectar feeding
of both sexes visit flowers for nectar. Males establish territories around nectar sources such as blooming Saltcedar (Tamarix) trees.