Taxonomy
Harpactus tumidus
Distribution
Status
Conservation status
Not Assessed
Species Biology
Identification
- Body length: 8-10mm
- Head black with creamy-white markings on the face
- Thorax primarily black with a creamy-white spot
- Anterior half of abdomen red with white blotches at the sides, posterior half black with subtle white spot near the tip
- Legs black with reddish blotches
- Could be confused with other solitary wasps, although the body shape and white markings are useful characteristics
Habitat
In Ireland it appears to be restricted to sandy sites along the southeastern coast in counties Wicklow, Wexford and Waterford, with a possible inland record. Coastal dunes with warm, sheltered areas and a a combination of both open sandy areas and denser patches of vegetation seem to be the optimum habitat.
Flight period
Records span July-August, although it is possibly on the wing from June-September.
Nesting biology
Little is known of this species' nesting biology in Ireland, but it is presumed to nest solitarily in sand. The females construct a burrow with several adjoining cells. Several froghopper nymphs are paralysed and placed in the cells before a single egg is laid in each one. The egg will hatch and the wasp larvae will consume the froghoppers nymphs before pupating and emerging as an adult the following year.
Flowers visited
Observed feeding on Wild Carrot (Daucus carota) in Ireland.
Native region
Europe, Temperate Asia
Similar species
- Other red and black solitary wasps (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 is poorly recorded in Ireland, particularly in recent years. Surveying suitable habitats for this species and sending your records to the NBDC would be greatly appreciated.
This species is parasitised by another rather similar-looking solitary wasp, Nysson dimidiatus. This species has not been found in Ireland but may be present and have previously been overlooked due to its similarity to other commoner solitary wasps. It is worth checking H. tumidus sites for this species.
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