Sphaeropthalma triangularis

(Blake, 1871)

Sphaeropthalma triangularis is a of velvet ant in the Mutillidae. Velvet ants are solitary , with females being wingless and often -like in appearance. The species was described by Blake in 1871. Like other members of the Sphaeropthalma, this species is likely a of other insects, though specific records for S. triangularis remain undocumented. The genus Sphaeropthalma is known to include species that parasitize mud dauber wasps and other Hymenoptera.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sphaeropthalma triangularis: //sfɛəˌrɒfˈθælmə traɪˈæŋɡjʊlərɪs//

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Ecological Role

Based on -level documentation, Sphaeropthalma function as , with females laying in the nests of other . The genus has been specifically recorded as parasitizing mud dauber nests (Sceliphron caementarium), where velvet ants may prey on the larval wasps or the spider provisions stored in the .

Similar Taxa

  • Sphaeropthalma rataoskBoth belong to the same Sphaeropthalma and share the characteristic wingless female and lifestyle. Differentiation requires examination of specific morphological characters such as color pattern, pilosity, and genitalia.
  • Dasymutilla nigripesBoth are velvet ants (Mutillidae) with similar overall body plan and . Sphaeropthalma can be distinguished from Dasymutilla by differences in antennal structure, thoracic , and details of the integumental sculpturing.

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