Ancistrocerus capra spenceri
Ancistrocerus capra spenceri is a of in the , Eumeninae. As a member of the Ancistrocerus, it is a solitary that constructs mud nests and provisions them with paralyzed for its developing . The specific biology and distribution of this subspecies have not been well documented in available literature.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ancistrocerus capra spenceri: //ænˌsɪstrəˈsɪərəs ˈkæprə spɛnˈsɛri//
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Identification
Members of the Ancistrocerus can be distinguished by a prominent transverse (ridge) on the base of the first abdominal (T1), creating an abrupt angle where the meets the . This feature separates Ancistrocerus from similar genera where the abdomen slopes more gently toward the thorax. Specific diagnostic features for A. capra spenceri relative to the nominate A. capra capra have not been documented in available sources.
Ecological Role
As with other Ancistrocerus , this likely functions as a of and contributes to of . in this are not significant , as primarily feed on nectar and other sources for energy rather than actively pollen.
Similar Taxa
- Ancistrocerus capra capraThe nominate ; A. capra spenceri would be distinguished by subspecific morphological characters, though these have not been detailed in available sources.
- Other Ancistrocerus speciesShare the diagnostic transverse on T1, but differ in color pattern, size, and specific markings on abdominal .
More Details
Nomenclatural note
The epithet 'spenceri' suggests this may have been named in honor of an individual, possibly the or Spencer, though the original description has not been consulted. The parent Ancistrocerus capra (Saussure, 1857) is a recognized species.
Data limitations
No primary literature, collection records, or ecological studies specifically addressing Ancistrocerus capra spenceri were found in the provided sources. Information here is inferred from -level characteristics documented for other Ancistrocerus , particularly A. waldenii, A. unifasciatus, and A. campestris.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Why Circadian Timing Is Everything | Bug Squad
- Bug Eric: Wasp Wednesday: Walden's Mason Wasp, Ancistrocerus waldenii
- Bug Eric: How to (Almost) Catch a Leaf-tier Caterpillar (Video)
- Bug Eric: How to Catch a Leafroller Caterpillar (Video)
- Tracking Mosquito-Borne Viruses at the Top of the World
- What can we learn from vanishing wildlife species: the case of the Pyrenean Ibex | Blog