Leucospid wasps
Scientific name: Leucospidae
Leucospid wasps
Scientific name: Leucospidae
Description
Members of the Leucospidae are unique wasps distinguished by their vivid, metallic sheens and oversized ovipositors. These wasps, which specialize in parasitizing bees, have a fascinating lifecycle. Contrary to the menacing appearance of their large stingers, they use these primarily for laying eggs inside bee nests rather than for defense. An interesting misconception about Leucospidae is their threat to humans; while they are formidable in the insect world, their interaction with humans is largely benign, focusing their remarkable biology on perpetuating their species through other insects, rather than engaging with larger animals.
Species of Leucospid wasps
Scientific Classification
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