The American Pelecinid Wasp (Pelecinus polyturator) is a large parasitic wasp notable for the extremely long abdomen of the female.
Taxonomy and Classification
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Family: Pelecinidae
- Genus: Pelecinus
- Species: Pelecinus polyturator
Physical Description
- Length: 30–60 mm
- Color: Shiny black
- Distinctive Feature: Long, curved abdomen in females
Distribution and Habitat
- North and Central America
- Forests and woodland edges
- Gardens and parks
Behavior and Ecology
Females lay eggs in the larvae of scarab beetles living in soil.
Management and Prevention
This wasp is beneficial because it helps control beetle populations.