Ammosphex
Wilcke, 1942
Species Guides
5Ammosphex is a subgenus of spider wasps in the Arachnospila, Pompilidae. It was established by Wilcke in 1942 and comprises distributed across East Siberia and the Russian Far East. Recent taxonomic work has described five new species from Tuva, Khakassia, and the Republic of Altai, and expanded known distributions for eight additional species. The group is characterized by morphological features distinguishable in males, for which a revised identification key covering 24 species exists.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ammosphex: /ˈæmoʊsfɛks/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Males of Ammosphex can be distinguished from other Arachnospila subgenera using morphological characters detailed in a revised key for 24 from East Siberia and the Russian Far East. The key relies on specific structural features; exact diagnostic traits require examination of the original taxonomic literature.
Images
Distribution
East Siberia (Tuva, Khakassia, Republic of Altai) and Russian Far East. Known from Russia; distribution records expanded through recent collections in montane and steppe regions of southern Siberia.
Similar Taxa
- Arachnospila (sensu stricto)Other subgenera of Arachnospila; distinguished by male genitalia and other structural characters in identification keys
- Other Pompilidae generaSpider wasps in related share general body plan but differ in wing venation, tarsal structure, and male genitalia
More Details
Taxonomic status
Ammosphex has been treated both as a full and as a subgenus of Arachnospila. Current sources (Catalogue of Life, GBIF) recognize it at genus rank, while recent taxonomic literature refers to it as Arachnospila (Ammosphex).
Research priority
Knowledge of this group is limited to taxonomic descriptions and distribution records. No published information exists on , , or for any .