Cryptocheilus terminatus
(Say, 1828)
Species Guides
2Cryptocheilus terminatus is a of spider wasp in the Pompilidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1828. Like other members of its , it is a solitary hunting that provisions nests with paralyzed spiders for its larvae. The species has been documented visiting flowering saltcedar (Tamarix) for nectar in Colorado. It is currently recognized as a synonym of Cryptocheilus terminatum terminatum in some taxonomic databases.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cryptocheilus terminatus: //ˌkrɪptoʊˈkaɪləs tɜːrˈmɪnətəs//
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Habitat
Has been observed in association with saltcedar (Tamarix sp.), an tree in North America. The visit the tree's pale pink blossoms for nectar.
Distribution
Documented in Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The broader geographic range is not well established in available sources.
Seasonality
Observed in mid-June in Colorado.
Diet
have been observed feeding on nectar from saltcedar flowers. As a pompilid , larvae are presumed to feed on paralyzed spiders provisioned by the female, though this specific relationship has not been documented for this .
Host Associations
- Saltcedar - nectar sourceTamarix sp., in North America
Behavior
Males have been observed establishing territories around flowering trees and defending them from other males. Females visit these nectar sources.
Ecological Role
Likely functions as a of spiders and as a when visiting flowers for nectar.
Similar Taxa
- Cryptocheilus sp.Other members of the same ; specific diagnostic features separating C. terminatus from are not available in the provided sources.
- Hemipepsis ustulataAnother large pompilid observed at the same location; distinguished by different and presumably different size and coloration.
More Details
Taxonomic Note
Catalogue of Life lists this name as a synonym of Cryptocheilus terminatum terminatum. NCBI and iNaturalist recognize it as a valid . The basionym is Pompilus terminatus Say, 1828.
Observation Context
Documented during a study of insect diversity at a single blooming saltcedar tree in Colorado Springs, which attracted an exceptional diversity of , bees, and butterflies.