Mediterranean-region
Guides
Eumenes mediterraneus
Mediterranean Potter Wasp
A solitary potter wasp species in the subfamily Eumeninae, recognized by its distinctive mud nest construction. Females build small urn-shaped nests attached to hard surfaces, provisioning them with paralyzed caterpillars before laying a single egg. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in antennae structure, with males possessing curled antennal tips. Two subspecies are recognized: E. m. mediterraneus and E. m. cypricus.
Phloeosinus armatus
Phloeosinus armatus is a bark beetle in the subfamily Scolytinae, the largest species in its genus. Native to the Middle East and eastern Mediterranean, it has been introduced to Italy, Russia, and North America. The species colonizes Cupressus sempervirens (Mediterranean cypress), forming gallery systems on trunks and large branches. It acts as a vector for phytopathogenic fungi, including Seiridium cardinale, the agent of cypress canker disease.