Odontocolon mellipes
(Say, 1829)
Odontocolon mellipes is a of ichneumon in the Xoridinae. The Odontocolon comprises 23 species found north of Mexico, with several exhibiting holarctic distributions across the entire northern hemisphere. Females possess long ovipositors used to drill into wood to reach , while males lack this structure. The species is recognized in part by teeth on the hind , a characteristic feature of the genus.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Odontocolon mellipes: /oʊˌdɒntəˈkoʊlɒn ˈmɛlɪpiːz/
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Identification
Members of the Odontocolon can be distinguished from other ichneumon wasps by the presence of teeth on the hind . Females have conspicuously long ovipositors, while males lack ovipositors entirely. The genus belongs to the Xoridinae, one of four genera in this group, all of which are of wood-boring beetles and/or Hymenoptera.
Habitat
Associated with dead and dying trees, particularly recently cut or fallen wood. The has been observed on deadfall from maple trees in early autumn.
Distribution
Holarctic distribution across the northern hemisphere. Found in North America, with the Odontocolon comprising 23 north of Mexico.
Seasonality
Active in autumn, particularly early October. This timing coincides with the availability of wood-boring in dead and dying trees.
Host Associations
- Cerambycidae - ofLonghorned wood-boring beetles. The drills into wood to reach living and lays on them. The larval wasp lives as an external on the , consuming it as it matures. Females may also oviposit on host pupae rather than grubs.
Life Cycle
Females use their long ovipositors to drill into wood and deposit on living . The larva hatches and lives as an external on the , feeding as the host matures. Development may also occur on host pupae. The larval wasp consumes the host and eventually emerges from the host's pupa.
Behavior
Females actively search for by investigating dead and dying wood. When ovipositing, the female drills into wood with her ovipositor to reach concealed larvae. have been observed ignoring exposed beetle on open stumps, suggesting preference for hosts concealed within wood.
Ecological Role
of wood-boring beetles, contributing to of longhorned beetle . Plays a role in nutrient cycling within forest through interactions with dead wood fauna.
Similar Taxa
- MegarhyssaBoth are ichneumon wasps with extremely long ovipositors used to reach wood-boring insect . Megarhyssa are generally larger and more spectacular in appearance, targeting woodwasp larvae (Siricidae) rather than .
More Details
Taxonomic context
Odontocolon is one of four in the Xoridinae. All Xoridinae are recognized as of wood-boring beetles and/or Hymenoptera. The genus contains 23 north of Mexico, with several species exhibiting holarctic distributions.