Ceropales nigripes
Cresson, 1867
Ceropales nigripes is a of spider wasp in the Pompilidae, described by Cresson in 1867. The Ceropales comprises kleptoparasitic spider wasps that lay in spiders already captured and paralyzed by other spider wasp species. This species has been observed in Colorado Springs and may serve as a visual model for mimicry by the ichneumon Ceratogastra ornata.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ceropales nigripes: /sɛ.roʊˈpæl.iːz ˈnaɪ.griːˌpɛs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Ceropales can be distinguished from similar spider wasps by their kleptoparasitic and associated morphological adaptations. From ichneumon wasps that may mimic them (such as Ceratogastra ornata), Ceropales can be separated by antennal structure: spider wasps possess fewer, longer antennal segments compared to the many short segments of ichneumon wasps. Wing venation also differs, with ichneumon wasps showing a distinctive 'horse ' in the forewing.
Distribution
Documented from Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The broader distribution is poorly documented.
Diet
As a kleptoparasite, females lay in spiders already captured and paralyzed by other spider wasp . The larva consumes the paralyzed spider .
Host Associations
- Spiders (Araneae) - Spiders previously captured and paralyzed by other spider wasp
Life Cycle
Females locate spiders that have been captured and paralyzed by other spider wasps, then lay their own on these stolen provisions. The larva develops as a on the paralyzed spider.
Behavior
Kleptoparasitic: females exploit the hunting efforts of other spider wasps by laying in their captured, paralyzed spider . This eliminates the need to hunt and subdue prey independently.
Ecological Role
Acts as a kleptoparasite in spider wasp , potentially affecting of both spider and the spider wasp species whose prey they exploit.
Human Relevance
May be encountered by naturalists observing flower-visiting . The has been noted as a potential model for mimicry by the ichneumon wasp Ceratogastra ornata, which may enhance the ichneumon's protection from .
Similar Taxa
- Ceratogastra ornataThis ichneumon exhibits striking similarity in color and pattern, and has been suggested to be a mimic of Ceropales . Ceratogastra ornata is slightly smaller (10-12 mm) and differs in antennal structure and wing venation.
- PoecilopompilusSpider wasps in this share similar coloration and pattern, and have also been proposed as models for mimicry by Ceratogastra ornata. Poecilopompilus are generally larger than Ceratogastra ornata.
More Details
Mimicry relationships
Ceropales have been implicated in a mimicry complex involving the ichneumon Ceratogastra ornata. The ichneumon wasp's resemblance to spider wasps (including Ceropales and Poecilopompilus) may confer protection from that avoid stinging spider wasps, despite ichneumon wasps being unable to sting humans effectively.