American Wasp Xenid vs Pavement Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | American Wasp Xenid | Pavement Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xenos peckii | Tetramorium caespitum |
| Order | Strepsiptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Xenidae | Formicidae |
| Size | 3.0-5.0 mm (males) | 2.5-4 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Parasites | Seed Feeders |
| Regions | North America | Europe, North America |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Not Evaluated |
American Wasp Xenid
A parasite of paper wasps in eastern North America, commonly found in Polistes fuscatus colonies. It dramatically alters host wasp behavior.
Did You Know?
Up to 40% of paper wasps in some colonies can be parasitized by this twisted-wing parasite.
Pavement Ant
A common urban ant that nests under sidewalks, driveways, and building foundations. They are well known for their spectacular territorial wars fought on pavements in spring.
Did You Know?
Rival colonies wage mass battles on sidewalks involving thousands of workers grappling in one-on-one combat.