Sphex ashmeadi

(Fernald, 1906)

thread-waisted wasp

Sphex ashmeadi is a of thread-waisted wasp in the Sphecidae. It has been observed in New Mexico, USA, where it visits milkweed flowers. The species is part of the diverse Sphex , which includes solitary that excavate burrows and provision them with paralyzed prey for their larvae.

Sphex ashmeadi on desert willow (cropped) by Susan Barnum. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.Sphex ashmeadi on desert willow by Susan Barnum. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sphex ashmeadi: /ˈsfɛks æʃˈmiːdiː/

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Identification

As a member of the Sphex, this likely exhibits the characteristic thread-waisted with a narrow petiole connecting the and . Within Sphex, species are distinguished by coloration patterns, body proportions, and wing characteristics. S. ashmeadi has been specifically noted among other Sphecidae at milkweed patches, suggesting it may be distinguished from similar genera like Prionyx (which have silvery facial patches) by its overall coloration and abdominal shape.

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Habitat

Has been observed in desert shrub and wildflower , specifically in association with milkweed (Asclepias spp.) patches in New Mexico. The Sphex generally occupies open, sandy or loose-soil areas suitable for burrow excavation.

Distribution

North America (documented in New Mexico, USA); Middle America. GBIF records indicate presence in both Middle America and North America.

Diet

have been observed visiting milkweed flowers for nectar. As with other Sphex , females likely hunt orthopteran prey (katydids or related insects) to provision subterranean nests.

Behavior

Observed visiting flowers for nectar. Based on characteristics, females likely excavate burrows in soil, paralyze prey with venom, and store multiple prey items per for larval development. Males may perch on vegetation to seek mates.

Ecological Role

As a when foraging on flowers. As a , likely helps regulate of orthopteran prey. The Sphex contributes to nutrient cycling through burrowing activities.

Similar Taxa

  • Sphex ichneumoneusGreat Golden Digger wasp is larger (15-27 mm), has distinctive golden and bi-colored , and is more widely distributed across North America; S. ashmeadi lacks the golden coloration
  • Sphex lucaeFemales are black with red and yellowish or violaceous wings; males are entirely black with violaceous wings; S. lucae shows strong and has more oval abdomen in females
  • Prionyx speciesPrionyx have silvery patches on the and that Sphex lack; they also have different abdominal proportions

More Details

Taxonomic Note

The was originally described as Chlorion ashmeadi by Fernald in 1906 before being transferred to Sphex. It is one of approximately 130 species in the Sphex.

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Sources and further reading