Poecilopompilus interruptus

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Poecilopompilus interruptus: /ˌpɛsɪloʊˈpɒmpɪləs ˌɪntəˈrʌptəs/

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Summary

Poecilopompilus interruptus is a highly variable species of spider wasp notable for its distinct coloration and morphology. It exhibits unique traits that help distinguish it from closely related species. It is an effective pollinator and contributes to ecosystem dynamics by preying on spiders.

Physical Characteristics

Highly variable spider wasp, approximately 13 mm in length; features long orange antennae, bold rufous-brown and yellow bands on the mesosoma, and yellow and brown markings on the thorax. Legs are brown and yellow, wings are brown. Females have dentate claws on forelegs. Males have straight or gently curved antennae while females have curled antennae.

Identification Tips

Eyes not strongly convergent above, forelegs of the female with dentate claws, male's clypeus with a truncate lower margin, propodeum usually has a single transverse posterior yellow stripe. Females have four weak spines on the front tarsi and parallel inner margins of the eyes, distinguishing them from P. algidus.

Habitat

Found in areas with extrafloral nectaries including agricultural lands and natural habitats.

Distribution

Southern California eastward and north into Mexico to Chiapas; northeastern United States and southeastern Canada; eastern Mexico to Panama; confined to the central valley of California.

Diet

Mainly preys on spiders of the family Araneidae; females may occasionally feed on haemolymph from captured spiders. Known floral visitors include Gossypium hirsutum and Helianthus annuus.

Ecosystem Role

Pollinators through visits to flowers; as spider wasps, they play a role in controlling spider populations.

Collecting Methods

  • Sweep netting

Preservation Methods

  • Pinning
  • Spreading

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Müllerian mimicry may cause confusion with other wasps, leading to misidentification.

Tags

  • spider wasp
  • pollinator
  • Hymenoptera
  • Müllerian mimicry