Scarab-grub-parasite
Guides
Scolia mexicana
Scolia mexicana is a digger wasp in the family Scoliidae, distributed across Mexico and the southern United States. As a parasitoid, females locate scarab beetle grubs underground, sting them to induce paralysis, and deposit eggs on the living hosts. The wasp larvae develop by consuming the immobilized grubs, eventually pupating within the host burrow and overwintering before emerging as adults. Adults have been observed visiting flowers for nectar, particularly members of the mint and aster families.
Scolia nobilitata
Noble Scoliid Wasp
Scolia nobilitata is a species of scoliid wasp native to North America. Adults are active in late summer and autumn, when they visit flowers for nectar. Females are parasitoids of scarab beetle grubs, locating hosts underground, paralyzing them with a sting, and laying eggs on the immobilized larvae. The species is considered beneficial for biological control of turf-damaging white grubs.