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Beetle-Killing Wasp

Tiphia femorata

A species of Tiphia

The adult males grow up to 5–12 mm (0.20–0.47 in) long, while females reach 5–15 mm (0.20–0.59 in). The body is completely black, light haired, and the tibiae and femora of the middle and rear pairs of legs are reddish brown. Rather similar species are Tiphia minuta and Tiphia unicolor.

General Info About Beetle-Killing Wasp
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Attributes of Beetle-Killing Wasp
Colors
Brown
Black
Red
Habitat
This species is present in most of Europe, the eastern Palearctic realm, and North Africa. It mainly inhabits warmer, dry and semi-arid grasslands and meadows.
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers, sap from trees, honeydew, plant secretions, extrafloral nectar
Larva Food Source
Japanese beetle larvae, chafer grubs, other scarab beetle 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
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Species Status of Beetle-Killing Wasp
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Beetle-Killing Wasp
Most of Europe, the eastern Palearctic realm, North Africa
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Life Cycle of Beetle-Killing Wasp
Egg During the egg stage, the future beetle-Killing Wasp is encased in a protective shell. It is generally oval-shaped and tiny in size. The egg's color often camouflages with the environment to protect against predators.
Larva The larval stage sees beetle-Killing Wasp as worm-like in form, with a significant focus on feeding and growth. It lacks wings and the distinctive features of adults, with molting occurring several times.
Pupal Beetle-Killing Wasp during the pupal stage remains largely inactive, encased within a protective cocoon or chrysalis. This stage is when the larva reorganizes into an adult, and significant morphological changes occur.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult beetle-Killing Wasp’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Interesting Facts About Beetle-Killing Wasp
The female beetle-Killing Wasp employs a unique hunting technique by burrowing underground to lay her eggs directly on buried beetle larvae, which her offspring will consume.
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Scientific Classification of Beetle-Killing Wasp
Class
Bugs
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Order
Bees
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Genus
Tiphia
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Tips for Finding Beetle-Killing Wasp
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Youth Habitat of Beetle-Killing Wasp
Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Beetle-Killing Wasp
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Beetle-Killing Wasp
The most suitable time to find adult beetle-Killing Wasp is during daylight hours when temperatures are warm enough for their activity, typically spring and summer when their host grubs are also active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Beetle-Killing Wasp
Dry and sunny conditions are generally more suitable for finding beetle-Killing Wasp, as wet or overly windy weather can reduce their activity levels.
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How and Where Can You Find Beetle-Killing Wasp at Different Life Stages
Adult Beetle-Killing Wasp adults can be found flying close to the ground or on flowers during the day. Look for them in open, sunny areas where their host grubs are likely to be found, such as lawns or gardens.
Larva Beetle-Killing Wasp larvae are parasitoids and will be located within the host grub body, so finding them requires checking for potential hosts in soil or decaying wood where the grubs are present.
Pupal Beetle-Killing Wasp pupae will be within the body of their host grub or nearby in the soil. They can be found by carefully digging in the soil around host grub-infested areas and looking for the pupal cases.
Egg Beetle-Killing Wasp eggs are laid on or near host larvae; hence, they can be found by locating host grubs and inspecting them for attached eggs.
Are Beetle-Killing Wasp harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Beetle-Killing Wasp
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Pollinator
Parasitoids of Pests
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Smell
Beetle-Killing Wasp is attracted to flowers primarily by their scent. While feeding on pollen for nourishment, beetle-Killing Wasp inadvertently collects pollen on its body. As it moves from flower to flower, it transfers pollen, aiding in plant pollination. This incidental contact ensures the cross-pollination of many plants.
Parasitoids of Pests
Parasitic Position Type
Ectoparasitism
Host Type
Beetles
Host Stage
Larvae
Beetle-Killing Wasp is an ectoparasite that exhibits specific parasitism, targeting primarily beetle larvae. In its larval stage, it seeks out its host and attaches externally, consuming the host from the outside. This evolved method enables beetle-Killing Wasp to avoid the host's internal immune defenses while efficiently exploiting its resources. Little-known but crucial, beetle-Killing Wasp plays a significant role in controlling beetle populations.
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