Paper-wasp-nest
Guides
Chalcoela
Sooty-winged Chalcoela (for C. iphitalis)
Chalcoela is a genus of crambid moths (family Crambidae, subfamily Glaphyriinae) containing at least two described species. The genus is notable for the brood parasitic biology of C. iphitalis, whose larvae are specialized predators of paper wasp (Polistes) larvae within their nests. This species represents a rare example of a lepidopteran that has evolved to exploit social hymenopteran colonies. The genus was established by Zeller in 1872.
Chalcoela pegasalis
wasp parasitizer moth
Chalcoela pegasalis, commonly known as the wasp parasitizer moth, is a small pyralid moth in the family Crambidae. The species was described by Francis Walker in 1859. It is notable for its parasitoid lifestyle, with larvae developing inside the nests of paper wasps (Polistes species). The moth occurs across the Caribbean and eastern North America, with adults active during the warmer months.