Dasymutillini
velvet ants
Genus Guides
2- Dasymutilla(velvet ants)
- Lomachaeta
Dasymutillini is a tribe of velvet ants (Mutillidae) characterized by dense, velvety and aposematic coloration. Members are solitary with wingless females and winged males. The tribe includes the Dasymutilla, which contains numerous across the Americas. Females are known for their extremely painful stings, among the most intense of any insect.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dasymutillini: /ˌdæsɪmjuːˈtɪlɪnaɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Females distinguished from other mutillid tribes by combination of: dense, often brightly patterned ; robust mesosoma; and absence of wings. Males possess wings and can be separated from females by this trait alone. Within Mutillidae, Dasymutillini often exhibit more extensive and contrasting color patterns (red, orange, black, white, or gold) than related tribes.
Images
Distribution
Primarily distributed across the Americas, with greatest diversity in arid and semi-arid regions of North and South America.
Behavior
Females are solitary and ground-dwelling, actively searching for nests. Both sexes exhibit rapid, erratic running movements when disturbed. Females produce audible stridulations when handled.
Ecological Role
of ground-nesting bees and ; females lay in nests where larvae consume host immatures.
Human Relevance
Females deliver intensely painful stings that have been rated among the most severe of any insect; medical attention rarely required. Some are popular subjects for macrophotography due to striking coloration.
Similar Taxa
- SphaeropthalminiAnother mutillid tribe; Sphaeropthalmini often have more compact body form and less extensive patterns
- MutilliniOverlapping distribution; Mutillini generally exhibit more subdued coloration and different antennal structure