Carrion Parasitoid Wasp vs Ant-decapitating Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Carrion Parasitoid Wasp | Ant-decapitating Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Alysia manducator | Pseudacteon tricuspis |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Braconidae | Phoridae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 1-2 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Farmland |
| Diet | Carrion Feeders | Parasitoids |
| Regions | Europe, North America | South America, introduced to North America for biocontrol |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Carrion Parasitoid Wasp
A small braconid wasp that parasitizes blowfly larvae in carrion. An important part of the decomposition ecosystem. Females locate buried fly larvae using chemical cues.
Did You Know?
Females can detect fly larvae buried in carrion from a considerable distance using their sensitive antennae.
Ant-decapitating Fly
A minute parasitoid fly that targets fire ants by injecting eggs into their bodies. The developing larva migrates to the ant's head, eventually causing it to fall off.
Did You Know?
The larva releases enzymes that dissolve the ant's head contents, and the head eventually falls off to serve as a pupation chamber.