Black Leafcutter Ant vs Blue-winged Scoliid Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Black Leafcutter Ant | Blue-winged Scoliid Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Acromyrmex lobicornis | Scolia dubia |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Formicidae | Scoliidae |
| Size | 3-9 mm | 18-25 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Underground |
| Diet | Herbivores | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Black Leafcutter Ant
A cold-tolerant leafcutter ant that builds conspicuous mound nests from vegetation debris. Workers are dark brown to black with prominent thoracic spines. This species can survive in temperate climates unusual for leafcutters.
Did You Know?
They are the most cold-tolerant leafcutter ants, surviving in regions where winter temperatures drop below freezing.
Blue-winged Scoliid Wasp
A black and reddish-brown wasp with iridescent blue wings commonly seen on flowers in late summer. It parasitizes green June beetle and Japanese beetle grubs.
Did You Know?
It is one of the best natural controls for Japanese beetle grubs, which are major lawn and garden pests.