Taxonomy
Pseudomalus auratus
Distribution
Status
Conservation status
Not Assessed
Species Biology
Identification
- Body Length: 3-6mm
- Iridescent blue-green head and thorax
- Iridescent golden-red abdomen
- Rounded abdomen tip; without four distinct 'teeth'
- Could be confused with other cuckoo wasps, but the size, colouration and rounded abdomen are diagnostic
Habitat
Poorly known in Ireland. Previous records have come from partially wooded sites and buildings. Elsewhere In Europe it can be found in woodlands, parks and gardens.
Flight period
Records span June-July, although it possibly flies from May-September as it does in Britain.
Nesting biology
A kleptoparasite. Females lay their eggs in the nests of other solitary wasps where the developing larvae eat the eggs and food supply of the host species. The precise host(s) in Ireland are unknown but are believed to be various members of the digger wasp (Crabronidae) family, such as Pemphredon inornata.
Flowers visited
Occasionally visits flowers of the family Apiaceae.
Native region
Europe, North America, Temperate Asia
Similar species
- None, although could be confused with other cuckoo wasps (see above).
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2024
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How can you help
This species is poorly recorded in Ireland. Surveying suitable sites and in particular, areas where the host species occur and sending any sightings of this species to the NBDC would be welcome.