Carrion Parasitoid Wasp vs Neotropical Shield Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Carrion Parasitoid Wasp Neotropical Shield Bug
Scientific Name Alysia manducator Edessa meditabunda
Order Hymenoptera Hemiptera
Family Braconidae Pentatomidae
Size 4-6 mm 12-17 mm
Habitat Farmland Farmland
Diet Carrion Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions Europe, North America Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, Bolivia
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.

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Did You Know?

Females can detect fly larvae buried in carrion from a considerable distance using their sensitive antennae.

Neotropical Shield Bug

A medium-sized green and brown shield-shaped stink bug common in South American agriculture. It is an important pest of soybeans and other legumes.

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Did You Know?

When disturbed, it releases aldehydes from thoracic glands that smell strongly of cilantro to repel attackers.