Chlorion

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Family: Sphecidae
Subfamily: Chloriontinae
Genus: Chlorion

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chlorion: /ˈklɔːr.i.ˌɒn/

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

Images

Chlorion brunneri by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Chlorion cyaneum (36255585146) (cropped) by Insects Unlocked
. Used under a CC0 license.

Chlorion Cyaneum by insectsunlocked. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Chlorion is a genus of parasitoid wasps known for their metallic-blue coloration and nesting behavior, preying primarily on crickets and cockroaches.

Physical Characteristics

Distinctively metallic-blue bodies.

Identification Tips

Chlorion can be distinguished from the similar genus Chalybion by their nesting behavior; while Chalybion builds mud nests, Chlorion species dig their own nests in loose gravel or sandy soil.

Habitat

Loosely packed gravel or sandy soil, where they can dig their nests.

Distribution

Species recorded from the Americas, Africa, tropical Asia, and Java.

Diet

Predominantly preys on Orthopteran insects such as crickets and cockroaches.

Life Cycle

Undergoes a life cycle typical of parasitoid wasps, involving the female hunting and provisioning a nest after it has been constructed.

Reproduction

Females dig nests in which they provision with prey before laying eggs.

Ecosystem Role

As predators of Orthopteran insects, they play a role in controlling insect populations.