Scambus pterophori

(Ashmead, 1890)

Scambus pterophori is a of ichneumon in the Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae. The species epithet "pterophori" suggests an association with plume moths (family Pterophoridae), likely indicating specificity. Like other Scambus species, it is presumed to be a of concealed lepidopteran larvae. The Scambus has been subject to taxonomic revision, with some species previously considered distinct now recognized as seasonal morphs of single species.

Bulletin - United States National Museum (1960) (20321108220) by Internet Archive Book Images. Used under a No restrictions license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Scambus pterophori: /ˈskæmbəs ˌptɛrəˈfɔːraɪ/

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Distribution

Recorded from multiple localities in Canada: Edmonton and Lethbridge in Alberta; Vermilion and Wagner in Alberta; and Aweme in Manitoba. The distribution appears to be restricted to the Canadian prairies and adjacent regions.

Host Associations

Pterophoridae - Implied by epithet; specific species unknown

Ecological Role

As a member of the Scambus, this likely functions as a of concealed lepidopteran larvae, contributing to of its .

Similar Taxa

Scambus calobatusClosely related congeneric ; S. calobatus has been shown to exhibit extreme seasonal formerly described as separate

More Details

Taxonomic context

The Scambus has undergone significant revision. Shaw et al. (2011) demonstrated that three nominal European (S. calobatus, S. planatus, S. ventricosus) represent seasonal forms of a single species. This raises questions about whether North American Scambus species, including S. pterophori, might similarly represent seasonal morphs rather than distinct species.