Stenodynerus kennicottianus
(de Saussure, 1870)
Stenodynerus kennicottianus is a solitary mason wasp in the Eumeninae. The is currently recognized as a heterotypic synonym of Rhynchalastor kennicottianus by some taxonomic authorities, reflecting ongoing taxonomic uncertainty in this . Like other eumenine , it nests in pre-existing cavities and provisions with paralyzed caterpillars for its larval offspring.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Stenodynerus kennicottianus: //ˌstɛnəʊdaɪˈnɪərəs ˌkɛnɪˌkɒtiˈeɪnəs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Difficult to distinguish from Parancistrocerus from images of live specimens; microscopic examination of actual specimens is usually required for definitive identification. Males have the last antennal segment folded like a finger against the adjacent segment, a distinctive antennal modification.
Habitat
Associated with cavity-nesting including pre-existing tunnels in dead wood, old borings, and artificial blocks. Observed in urban and suburban settings where suitable nesting substrates are available.
Distribution
Recorded in North America; specific observations from Colorado and California. Distribution details are limited due to taxonomic confusion with related and lack of comprehensive survey data.
Seasonality
Active during summer months; observed in June in Colorado Springs and at unspecified times in California.
Diet
Females provision nests with paralyzed caterpillars as food for larval offspring. have been observed foraging at flowers including Indian hawthorn (Rhaphiolepsis umbellata).
Behavior
Nests in pre-existing cavities. Females hunt caterpillars, paralyze them, and stock nest with this prey. Males have been observed foraging at flowers.
Ecological Role
of caterpillars; contributes to of herbivorous Lepidoptera. through flower visitation. Serves as for parasitic including sapygids.
Human Relevance
Occasionally documented in artificial blocks and bee hotels, providing opportunities for observation and study of solitary . Not known to be defensive or sting humans readily.
Similar Taxa
- Parancistrocerus speciesExtremely similar appearance; cannot be reliably separated from Stenodynerus kennicottianus from images of live specimens in most cases. Microscopic examination of actual specimens is required for definitive identification.
More Details
Taxonomic Status
Stenodynerus kennicottianus is currently treated as a heterotypic synonym of Rhynchalastor kennicottianus by GBIF and Catalogue of Life, though iNaturalist and NCBI retain it under Stenodynerus. This reflects broader taxonomic instability in the Eumeninae, where generic boundaries remain under revision.
Male Antennal Modification
Males possess a distinctive antennal structure: the last antennal segment is modified to fold like a finger against the adjacent segment. This trait has been noted as a diagnostic feature for the Stenodynerus.