Hypera-postica
Guides
Bathyplectes curculionis
Bathyplectes curculionis is a parasitoid wasp in the family Ichneumonidae that attacks larvae of the alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica), a major pest of alfalfa crops. It has been introduced and established in various regions as a biological control agent. Field studies indicate that its populations are influenced by sugar availability, including aphid honeydew and floral nectar. In some regions, it has been displaced by the congener Bathyplectes anurus, which exhibits superior reproductive capacity, more rapid host handling, and avoidance of host encapsulation.
Odynerus dilectus
A potter wasp species in the subfamily 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 biological control agent for alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica) in integrated pest management programs.