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Cream-striped darwin wasp

Cream-striped darwin wasp

Ophion obscuratus

A species of Ophion wasps

The cream-striped darwin wasp does not hibernate in the winter, instead, it disappears for a few months in the late spring and early summer. Instead of depositing their eggs in word-borne holes, females use caterpillars. The female lays her eggs inside the caterpillars of different species of nocturnal moths.

General Info About Cream-striped darwin wasp
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Attributes of Cream-striped darwin wasp
Colors
Brown
Black
Red
Habitat
Open or semi-open grassland and heath
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from various flowering plants
Larva Food Source
Lepidopteran larvae
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Cream-striped darwin wasp
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Cream-striped darwin wasp
North Atlantic
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Life Cycle of Cream-striped darwin wasp
Egg The cream-striped darwin wasp begins as an egg, which is often oval and tiny. The egg's color and hardness vary depending on the species. It is typically laid in close proximity to or inside a host, depending on the insect's life strategy.
Larva After hatching, the larva stage of cream-striped darwin wasp appears worm-like, with a voracious appetite tailored for growth. The larva undergoes several molts, enlarging with each one. It lacks developed wings and resembles a caterpillar or maggot.
Pupal The cream-striped darwin wasp enters the pupa stage where it is generally immobile and encased in a cocoon or puparium. During this stage, the body reorganizes drastically, transforming internal structures and appendages in preparation for adulthood.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult cream-striped darwin wasp is characterized by wings and reproductive organs. They have a hardened exoskeleton, a slender body with distinct segments and are now mobile, prioritizing reproduction and possibly flight.
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Predators of Cream-striped darwin wasp Larvae
Araneae, formicidae, mantodea, aves
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Predators of Adult Cream-striped darwin wasp
Araneae, aves, chiroptera
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Interesting Facts About Cream-striped darwin wasp
After stinging, cream-striped darwin wasp larvae can control their host's behavior, leading them to seek protective environments beneficial for the larva's development.
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Scientific Classification of Cream-striped darwin wasp
Tips for Finding Cream-striped darwin wasp
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Youth Habitat of Cream-striped darwin wasp
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Rotting and Decaying Matter, On and Within Other Organisms (Parasitic and Symbiotic Relationships)
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Adult Habitat of Cream-striped darwin wasp
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Cream-striped darwin wasp
Pheromone or light traps can be used to attract adult cream-striped darwin wasp, as they are drawn to certain chemical signals or light during their active period.
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Habitat Preferences of Cream-striped darwin wasp Through Different Life Stages
During its larval stage, cream-striped darwin wasp is typically found inside the bodies of host caterpillars, where larvae feed and develop. As a pupa, cream-striped darwin wasp commonly occupies a cocoon, which may be located in the soil, leaf litter, or hidden in vegetation near the caterpillars' habitat. Adult cream-striped darwin wasp are frequently seen in environments where potential host caterpillars are present, such as meadows, forests, and gardens, often searching for partners and suitable hosts by flying or walking on leaves and branches.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Cream-striped darwin wasp
The best time to find adult cream-striped darwin wasp would be during their active season, which is typically late spring to early fall. Searching during the night can also be effective as they might be attracted to lights.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Cream-striped darwin wasp
Calm, warm, and humid nights are typically the best conditions for finding cream-striped darwin wasp, as these conditions are favorable for their flight and activity.
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How and Where Can You Find Cream-striped darwin wasp at Different Life Stages
Egg Cream-striped darwin wasp eggs are minuscule and can be found on or near the host larvae upon which the adult cream-striped darwin wasp lays eggs. Searching on the bodies of caterpillars or other host insects with a magnifying glass may reveal these eggs.
Larva Cream-striped darwin wasp larvae develop inside the host and may not be externally visible. To find larvae, look for parasitized host larvae, which may exhibit changes in behavior or coloration, and dissecting these hosts carefully may reveal cream-striped darwin wasp larvae.
Pupal Cream-striped darwin wasp pupae may be found within the remains of the host body or nearby. Searching in soil or detritus beneath plants known to harbor host larvae might lead to the discovery of hidden pupae.
Adult Adult cream-striped darwin wasp might be found near host insect populations or flowering plants. Attracting them with pheromone traps or using sweep nets over foliage where hosts are present might result in capturing adult cream-striped darwin wasp. Additionally, setting up a light source at night can lure the nocturnal flying adults.
Are Cream-striped darwin wasp harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Cream-striped darwin wasp
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Parasitoids of Pests
Parasitoids of Pests
Parasitic Position Type
Endoparasitism
Parasitic Special Type
Specific Parasitism
Host Type
Moths
Host Stage
Larvae
Cream-striped darwin wasp partakes in a fascinating role within the ecosystem by targeting caterpillars. It’s an endoparasitoid, with larvae that develop inside the host, ultimately proving lethal. This highlights nature’s intricate balance where cream-striped darwin wasp regulates pest populations, showcasing a distinct form of biological control which is both efficient and specific to its host. Through this selective parasitism, cream-striped darwin wasp adds to the dynamic complexity of food webs.
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