Dolichodynerus
Bohart, 1939
Species Guides
3Dolichodynerus is a Nearctic of potter wasps ( Eumeninae) established by Bohart in 1939. The genus contains three recognized : D. tanynotus, D. turgiceps, and D. vandykei. These solitary construct mud nests and provision them with paralyzed caterpillars for their larvae.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dolichodynerus: /ˌdɑːlɪkoʊˈdaɪnərəs/
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Identification
Dolichodynerus can be distinguished from other Nearctic eumenine by its elongated body form and specific petiole structure. The genus name itself references this elongation ('dolicho-' meaning long). Specific identification to requires examination of male genitalia and other subtle morphological characters.
Habitat
Found in North American where mud sources and caterpillar prey are available. Specific microhabitat preferences for nesting sites have not been documented in detail.
Distribution
Nearctic region (North America). The three have distinct but partially overlapping ranges within western and southwestern United States and adjacent Mexico.
Diet
feed on nectar. Females provision nests with paralyzed caterpillars (Lepidoptera larvae) as food for developing larvae.
Life Cycle
Solitary nesting . Females construct mud , provision each with multiple paralyzed caterpillars, lay a single , and seal the cell. Larvae develop on the provided prey, pupate within the cell, and emerge as . No detailed studies have been published for this .
Behavior
Nesting involves mud construction typical of potter wasps. No aggregated nesting or social behavior has been reported. Males have been observed at flowers.
Ecological Role
of caterpillars; contributes to lepidopteran . may serve as when visiting flowers for nectar.
Human Relevance
Not known to be economically significant. Lacks defensive colony structure and is not considered a stinging pest. Potential value in of caterpillar pests, though not commercially utilized.
Similar Taxa
- EumenesBoth are Nearctic potter wasp with mud-nesting ; Dolichodynerus differs in more elongated body proportions and petiole structure
- AncistrocerusSimilar size range and solitary nesting habits; Dolichodynerus has more slender build and different petiole
More Details
Taxonomic note
The was revised by Bohart in 1950, who described D. vandykei and clarified boundaries. The placement has shifted between Vespidae (traditional) and Eumenidae (recent treatments). The three species appear to be or parapatric in distribution.