Dipogon fulleri
Krombein, 1962
Dipogon fulleri is a of spider wasp in the Pompilidae, described by Krombein in 1962. The species was originally placed in the Winnemanella and later transferred to Dipogon. As a member of the genus Dipogon, it shares the characteristic -mimicking appearance created by dark bands on the wings. Like other Dipogon species, females hunt spiders to provision nests in pre-existing cavities. The species is known from limited records and appears to be poorly documented in the literature.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dipogon fulleri: //daɪˈpoʊɡɒn ˈfʊləri//
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Identification
Dipogon fulleri can be distinguished from other Dipogon by subtle differences in color and pattern, though specific diagnostic features are not well documented in available sources. Members of the Dipogon are characterized by dark bands on the wings that create an -mimicking appearance, and by a "beard" of hairs on the maxillary palps used to carry nest materials. The reddish front legs mentioned for D. calipterus may or may not apply to D. fulleri.
Diet
Females hunt spiders to provision nests. Based on -level records for Dipogon, prey likely includes crab spiders (Thomisidae, especially Xysticus), jumping spiders (Salticidae), and ground spiders (Gnaphosidae). Females may also kill prey specifically to feed themselves rather than their offspring.
Life Cycle
Nests are constructed in pre-existing tubular cavities such as abandoned tunnels of wood-boring beetles or soft pith in dead or broken plant stems. The linear cavity is divided into using partitions constructed from mud mixed with leaves, insect body parts, and other materials. An is laid on a paralyzed or killed spider in each cell.
Behavior
Females hunt for spider prey on tree trunks and vegetation. They carry prey by grasping the and sideways or backwards, dragging the spider. Females rarely visit flowers for nectar. Males may perch on leaves to defend territories.
Ecological Role
As a spider wasp, D. fulleri functions as a of spiders, potentially influencing spider in forest . The may also serve as prey for other organisms.
Similar Taxa
- Dipogon calipterusSimilar -mimicking wing bands and preferences; D. calipterus has reddish front legs and is more widely distributed and better documented
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Winnemanella fulleri Krombein, 1962, this was later transferred to the Dipogon. Catalogue of Life currently lists it as a synonym of Winnemanella fulleri, while GBIF treats Winnemanella fulleri as the accepted name and Dipogon fulleri as a synonym. This indicates ongoing taxonomic uncertainty or disagreement between databases.
Etymology
The specific epithet 'fulleri' likely honors an individual, possibly a colleague or mentor of the describer Krombein, following standard practices in zoological .