Ammophilinae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ammophilinae: /ˌæməˈfɪləˌnaɪ/

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Summary

The Ammophilinae subfamily comprises thread-waisted wasps known for their distinctive waist, diverse behaviors, and ecological roles as both pollinators and insect predators.

Physical Characteristics

Thread-waisted appearance, often characterized by elongated first segment of the abdomen (petiole).

Identification Tips

Look for long, slender bodies with a narrow waist; observe the color patterns and wing venation for more specific identification within genera.

Habitat

Typically found in sandy soils and open areas where they can burrow and hunt.

Distribution

Widespread, found in various regions across the world, particularly in sandy habitats.

Diet

Adult wasps typically feed on nectar, while larvae feed on insects, which are captured and paralyzed to serve as food.

Life Cycle

Life cycle includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages; most species are solitary.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs in burrows with paralyzed prey, which serve as food for the larvae after hatching.

Ecosystem Role

Important pollinators and serve as biological control agents by preying on other insects.

Evolution

Part of the Hymenoptera order, evolving to specialize in specific hunting and nesting behaviors.

Similar Taxa

• Sphecidae
• Crabronidae

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for hornets or yellow jackets, but are generally solitary and less aggressive.

Tags

• wasps
• Ammophilinae
• Hymenoptera
• pollinators