Acroricnus stylator
(Thunberg, 1822)
Species Guides
3Acroricnus stylator is a parasitic ichneumon in the Ichneumonidae. The has been documented as a of mud dauber wasps, specifically targeting the nests of Sceliphron caementarium (Black and Yellow Mud Dauber). Records indicate presence in Belgium, Denmark, and Canada, suggesting a Holarctic distribution pattern. The Acroricnus is part of the diverse ichneumonid fauna that specialize in exploiting the nests of other wasps.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acroricnus stylator: /ˌæ.krəˈrɪk.nəs staɪˈleɪ.tər/
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Images
Distribution
Belgium (including Flemish and Walloon regions), Denmark, and Canada (Waterton, Alberta). The documented distribution suggests a transcontinental Holarctic range spanning western Europe and North America.
Diet
The has been observed as a of mud dauber , specifically Sceliphron caementarium (Black and Yellow Mud Dauber). The female likely deposits into mud dauber nest containing paralyzed spider prey.
Host Associations
- Sceliphron caementarium - Black and Yellow Mud Dauber; documented from which Acroricnus stylator emerges as a
Ecological Role
of solitary that provision nests with spiders; contributes to of mud dauber wasps and indirectly affects spider through -prey dynamics.
Human Relevance
Minimal direct interaction with humans. Indirectly relevant as a natural control agent for mud dauber , which sometimes nest on human structures.
Similar Taxa
- OsprynchotusAlso an ichneumonid documented as parasitizing mud dauber nests; both genera exploit similar but differ in taxonomic placement within Ichneumonidae.
- MelittobiaChalcid also parasitic on mud daubers; differs in (Chalcididae), much smaller body size, and different parasitic strategy.