Taxonomy
Ancistrocerus scoticus
Distribution
Status
Conservation status
Not Assessed
Species Biology
Identification
- Body length: 7-12mm, males smaller than females
- Primarily black body with three or four yellow or whiteish bands on the abdomen
- Two colour forms occur in Ireland; one with whiteish stripes and the other with yellow. The former is the typical Irish form and is more common
- Legs are reddish
- Males have a yellow face
- The first yellow/white band on the abdomen is not expanded at the sides
- Could be confused with other Ancistrocerus species, but the reddish legs and the shape, colour and number of bands are useful. For confusing specimens it is best to use a microscope and specialist keys.
Habitat
Primarily coastal in Ireland. It seems to prefer varied coastlines, soft rock cliffs and rocky areas, avoiding excessively sandy stretches. It has only been recorded from one inland site.
Flight period
May-August
Nesting biology
It nests singly in clusters of mud cells, usually constructed against a hard surface, such as cliffs, rocky crevices and masonry. One or several caterpillars are deposited within each cell before an egg is laid. The wasp larva emerges and feeds on the caterpillars before pupating and emerging as an adult the following year.
Flowers visited
Both sexes will nectar occasionally, particularly on Thrift (Ameria maritima) and Wild Carrot (Daucus carota).
Native region
Europe, Temperate Asia
Similar species
- Other Ancistrocerus species (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 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