Taxonomy
Ancistrocerus oviventris
Distribution
Status
Conservation status
Not Assessed
Species Biology
Identification
- Body length: 7-13mm, females are larger than males
- Primarily black in colour with five or six yellow or whiteish bands on the abdomen
- The legs are reddish in colour
- Males have a yellow face
- The first band on the abdomen is not expanded at the sides
- Could be confused with other Ancistrocerus species, but the combination of reddish legs and the shape, number and colour of the abdominal bands are useful. For trickier specimens, the use of a microscope and specialist keys are recommended
Habitat
A species which like Ancistrocerus scoticus, seems to prefer coastal habitats albeit less strictly. Irish records come from areas of soft rock cliffs, rocky coastal areas and grasslands. It is occasionally found inland in gardens and partially wooded sites.
Flight period
May-August, peaking in June.
Nesting biology
Nests are constructed in rocky crevices, brickwork, cliffs and among stones, often in warm sunny situations. Cells are formed using soft mud and each one is filled with several small moth caterpillars before an egg is laid and the cell is sealed. The eggs hatch and the wasp larvae feed on the caterpillars before pupating and emerging as adults the following year.
Flowers visited
Visits flowers such as Bird-foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), Wild Thyme (Thymus drucei) and Thrift (Armeria maritima).
Native region
Europe, Temperate Asia
Similar species
- Other Ancistrocerus species (see above).
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2025
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How can you help
This species has been under-recorded in Ireland. Surveying suitable sites and sending your records of this species to the NBDC would be greatly appreciated.
References
Publications
Stelfox, A. W. (1924). A List of the Hymenoptera Aculeata (Sensu Lato) of Ireland. Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy. Section B: Biological, Geological, and Chemical Science, 37, 201–vi. http://www.jstor.org/stable/20490329