Ammophila aphrodite
Menke, 1964
Ammophila aphrodite is a of thread-waisted wasp in the Sphecidae, native to the southwestern United States. The species is distinguished by its entirely reddish-orange body coloration. Like other members of its , it is a solitary that provisions nests with paralyzed caterpillars for its larvae.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ammophila aphrodite: /ˌæməˈfaɪlə ˌæfroʊˈdaɪti/
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Identification
Entirely reddish-orange body distinguishes this from most other Ammophila, which typically display black and red or black and silver color patterns. The uniform coloration is the primary diagnostic feature for field identification.
Distribution
Southwestern United States.
Similar Taxa
- Ammophila proceraLarger with black body and silver thoracic stripes; found across North America rather than restricted to the Southwest
- Other Ammophila speciesMost display contrasting black and red or black and silver patterns rather than uniform reddish-orange coloration