ASTATA SP.

Astata Sp.

CRABRONID WASP FAMILY (Crabronidae)


Description

This small wasp is aproximately 1/2 inch in length.  The eyes are large and black and touching in the middle on males.  The face and thorax are black.  The abdomen is bright red.  The legs and antennae are black.  The wings are brown and clear.



Occurrence

The frequency of occurrence is not now known.  It has been seen once in Fontenelle Forest in early  August along the Wetlands boardwalk.



Comments

There are 14 species of Astata in North America.  They nest in burrows in the soil.  Each burrow has several chambers.  The prey for this species is stink bugs, in the family Pentatomidae.





Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Nature Association who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Loren Padelford.
Female Astata sp. with Stink Bug Prey

Female Astata sp. with Stink Bug Prey

View Full Size

 

 

 

 

© 2008 Fontenelle Nature Association. All Rights Reserved. | Website Design by REBEL INTERACTIVE