Odynerus dilectus
de Saussure, 1870
A potter wasp in the Eumeninae, recorded from the United States and Alberta, Canada. Females construct distinctive turrets at nest entrances and provision nests with prey, primarily alfalfa weevil larvae in agricultural contexts, though small caterpillars have also been documented as prey. The species has been investigated as a potential agent for alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica) in programs.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Odynerus dilectus: /oʊˈdɪnɛrəs dɪˈlɛktəs/
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Habitat
Agricultural areas with alfalfa; southern Alberta, Canada and western United States
Distribution
United States (California, Utah) and Alberta, Canada
Diet
Larvae of the alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica); small caterpillars (recorded in California)
Host Associations
- Hypera postica - prey/ for larval provisioningPrimary prey item in Alberta and Utah; investigated as agent for this alfalfa pest
Behavior
Females construct nests with distinctive turrets at the entrance; provision nests with prey for larval development
Ecological Role
of alfalfa weevil larvae; potential agent in programs
Human Relevance
Investigated for of alfalfa weevil in agricultural pest management