Mason-wasp-parasite
Guides
Anthrax aterrimus
Anthrax aterrimus is a bee fly in the family Bombyliidae, subfamily Anthracinae. The larval stage has been documented as an external parasite on the pre-pupal or pupal stages of the mason wasp Monobia quadridens. As with other members of the genus Anthrax, adults likely visit flowers for nectar. The species was described by Bigot in 1892.
Chrysis nitidula-complex
The Chrysis nitidula-complex is a species group of cuckoo wasps (family Chrysididae) characterized by metallic coloration and parasitic life history. Members of this complex are kleptoparasites that lay eggs in the nests of other solitary wasps, particularly mason wasps. The larvae consume the prey provisions intended for the host's offspring. Species within this complex are difficult to distinguish morphologically and require detailed examination for definitive identification.
Macrosiagon cruenta
Macrosiagon cruenta is a wedge-shaped beetle in the family Ripiphoridae. The species is known to occur as a nest parasite or predator of mason wasp larvae, specifically in nests of Ancistrocerus campestris. Larvae have been observed preying on wasp larvae within pre-existing beetle borings in wood, hollowed twigs, or abandoned mud dauber nests. The species has been documented across eastern and central North America.
Toxophora amphitea
Toxophora amphitea is a species of bee fly in the family Bombyliidae. It is known from eastern North America, ranging from Ontario south to Florida and Texas. The species has been documented as a parasite of mason wasp nests, specifically those of Ancistrocerus campestris. As a member of the subfamily Toxophorinae, it belongs to a group of bee flies characterized by particular morphological and ecological traits.
Toxophora leucopyga
Toxophora leucopyga is a species of bee fly (family Bombyliidae) described by Wiedemann in 1828. The genus Toxophora belongs to the subfamily Toxophorinae, a group characterized by parasitic larvae that develop in the nests of solitary wasps and bees. This species, like other members of its genus, is known to parasitize the nests of mason wasps.