Rhyssa crevieri

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Superfamily: Ichneumonoidea
Family: Ichneumonidae
Subfamily: Rhyssinae
Genus: Rhyssa
Species: crevieri

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Rhyssa crevieri: //ˈrɪsə krɛˈvɪəri//

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Summary

Rhyssa crevieri is a species of ichneumon wasp characterized by its distinctive coloration and parasitic behavior, laying eggs on wood-dwelling larvae.

Physical Characteristics

White bands on the antennae; lacks a white dorsobasal spot on the hind coxae (ground color is dark); smaller notched-to-triangular white spot on metapleuron.

Identification Tips

Distinguished from Rhyssa lineolata by the absence of a white dorsobasal spot on the hind coxae and the shape and size of the metapleuron spot.

Habitat

Wooded areas where timber is present.

Distribution

Present in most of Europe, the Australian region, the Near East, the Nearctic realm, the Indomalayan realm, and North Africa.

Diet

Parasitoid; larvae develop on host larvae living in timber.

Life Cycle

Eggs are laid on larvae in timber, providing a food supply and incubator for the developing progeny.

Reproduction

Females use a hair thin ovipositor (terebra) to drill into wood and lay eggs on larvae.

Ecosystem Role

As a parasitoid, it plays a role in controlling populations of wood-boring insects.

Collecting Methods

Sweep netting in appropriate habitats
Trapping with host material

Preservation Methods

Ninety percent ethanol preservation
Pinned specimens
Glass vials for small samples

Evolution

Rhyssa is a genus of ichneumon wasps which has diversified in various environments.

Similar Taxa

Rhyssa lineolata