Amelinae
Genus Guides
2- Litaneutria(American Ground Mantises)
- Yersiniops(Grasshopper Mantises)
Amelinae is a of potter wasps (Vespidae) characterized by their distinctive nest-building , constructing small mud pots for rearing larvae. The subfamily contains the single Amelius, with distributed across the Palearctic and Oriental regions. These are solitary and primarily predatory, provisioning nests with caterpillars.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Amelinae: //æˈmɛlɪniː//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
Palearctic and Oriental regions, including parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa.
Diet
primarily nectar-feed; larvae provisioned with paralyzed caterpillars (Lepidoptera).
Life Cycle
Solitary construct individual mud nests, each provisioned with multiple caterpillars and a single . Larvae develop within the sealed pot, pupating inside.
Behavior
Females construct small, pot-shaped mud nests attached to vegetation or substrates, sealing each after provisioning.
Ecological Role
of caterpillars; potential agent for lepidopteran .
Human Relevance
Generally harmless to humans; nests occasionally noticed on garden plants or structures.
Similar Taxa
- EumeninaeAlso potter wasps with mud nests, but Amelinae have simpler, unornamented pot shapes and different wing venation.