Rusty Spider Wasp

Tachypompilus ferrugineus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Superfamily: Pompiloidea
Family: Pompilidae
Subfamily: Pompilinae
Tribe: Pompilini
Genus: Tachypompilus
Species: ferrugineus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tachypompilus ferrugineus: /ˌtækɪˈpɒmpɪləs fɛˈruːdʒɪniəs/

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

Images

Summary

Tachypompilus ferrugineus, known as the rusty spider wasp, is a species of wasp that preys primarily on large wandering spiders. It is identifiable by its reddish-brown coloration and distinctive markings. Found across the Americas, it exhibits interesting behaviors such as courtship displays and constructing nests in sandy soil.

Physical Characteristics

A mostly reddish-brown wasp, with four narrow dark bands circling the abdomen, and violet-blue wings. Body measures 15–25 mm (0.59–0.98 in) in length.

Identification Tips

Notable for its reddish-brown body with distinct dark bands on the abdomen and violet-blue wings. Females can be recognized by their behavior of dragging prey.

Habitat

Prefers dry, powdery soil often located under trees or buildings for nesting.

Distribution

From as far north as Canada, through the United States, Mexico, and Central America, down to South America and the Caribbean.

Diet

Primarily preys on wandering spiders, especially wolf spiders of the family Lycosidae, and other large spiders.

Life Cycle

Females dig a depression in the soil for nesting, where they deposit eggs on captured spiders, which serve as food for the larvae.

Reproduction

Mating occurs after males and females have been observed engaging in courtship behaviors, including wing scissoring and antennae vibrational displays.

Ecosystem Role

As a predator of spiders, it plays a role in regulating spider populations in its habitat.

Collecting Methods

Netting adults from flowers
Observing their nests and behaviors

Preservation Methods

Pinning specimens
Mounting for display
Using ethanol for preservation

Similar Taxa

Tachypompilus analis

Misconceptions

The common name 'red-tailed spider wasp' can also refer to the Asian species Tachypompilus analis, which may cause confusion.