Anoplius carolinus

(Banks, 1921)

Spider Wasp

Anoplius carolinus is a of spider wasp in the Pompilidae, first described by Banks in 1921. The Anoplius comprises spider wasps that hunt wolf spiders (family Lycosidae) and other wandering spiders to provision nests for their larvae. Like other members of the genus, this species likely exhibits the characteristic of digging burrows, paralyzing prey with venom, and laying a single on the immobilized spider. The specific epithet 'carolinus' suggests a connection to the Carolinas or southeastern United States, though detailed distributional records are sparse.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Anoplius carolinus: /əˈnɒpliəs kæˈroʊlɪnəs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Distribution

Distribution records indicate presence in Vermont and the United States generally. The specific epithet 'carolinus' suggests potential association with the Carolinas region, though precise range boundaries remain undocumented in available sources.

Host Associations

Lycosidae - preyMembers of Anoplius are known to prey on wolf spiders; specific records for A. carolinus are not documented

Similar Taxa

Anoplius aethiopsLarge black spider wasp with similar overall ; microscopic examination often required for definitive separation within Anoplius
Anoplius cleoraClosely related in same with overlapping range; difficult to distinguish without detailed examination
Anoplius semicinctusSpider wasp with red or orange abdominal markings that can be confused with other Anoplius by non-

More Details

Taxonomic Note

Anoplius carolinus was described by Nathan Banks in 1921. The Anoplius contains approximately 26 in Colorado alone, with roughly five subgenera recognized. Most species in the genus are black and measure 10-20 millimeters in body length.

Identification Challenges

Most spider wasps in Pompilidae are wholly blue-black in color with few distinguishing field characteristics. Definitive identification of Anoplius typically requires microscopic examination of morphological features, such as the smooth outer edge of the hind tibiae which helps distinguish Pompilinae from Pepsinae.