Cerceris acanthophila
Cockerell, 1897
Cerceris acanthophila is a solitary predatory in the Crabronidae, described by Cockerell in 1897. Like other members of the Cerceris, this is a ground-nesting hunter that provisions its underground nests with paralyzed insect prey for its larvae. The specific epithet "acanthophila" suggests an association with spiny or thorny plants (Greek: akantha = thorn, philos = loving), though the precise biological significance remains unverified. The species occurs in Middle and North America, but detailed natural history information is sparse compared to better-studied such as C. fumipennis.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cerceris acanthophila: /sɛrˈsɛrɪs əˌkænˈθɒfɪlə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
Middle America and North America. GBIF records indicate presence in both regions, with specific countries not detailed in available sources.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- Catalogue of Life
- Working with Cerceris fumipennis—Part 2 | Beetles In The Bush
- Working with Cerceris fumipennis—Part 1 | Beetles In The Bush
- Hymenoptera | Beetles In The Bush | Page 6
- Wasp, Geographic Data Improve Surveillance for Emerald Ash Borer
- Predatory Wasps and Citizen Scientists are Taking on the Emerald Ash Borer
- ID Challenge #19 | Beetles In The Bush