Sphaeropthalma difficilis
(Baker, 1905)
Sphaeropthalma difficilis is a of velvet ant ( Mutillidae), a group of solitary known for their aposematic coloration and powerful stings. Females are wingless and resemble ants, while males possess wings. The species was described by Baker in 1905. Like other mutillids, it is presumed to be a of other insects, though specific records for this species are not well documented.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sphaeropthalma difficilis: /sfɛˌroʊˈfælmə dɪˈfɪsɪlɪs/
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Images
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- NCBI Taxonomy
- Primary Type List | Entomology Research Museum
- Honey Locust Borer | Beetles In The Bush
- Buprestidae | Beetles In The Bush | Page 9
- taxonomy | Beetles In The Bush | Page 4
- jewel beetles | Beetles In The Bush | Page 8
- During Quarantine, an Entomologist Takes a Closer Look at a New Invasive Ant Species