Giant Trap-jaw Ant vs Large-headed Resin Bee

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Giant Trap-jaw Ant Large-headed Resin Bee
Scientific Name Odontomachus hastatus Heriades truncorum
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Formicidae Megachilidae
Size 12-16 mm 6-8 mm
Habitat Forests Orchards
Diet Omnivores Nectar Feeders
Regions South America Europe, Western Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Giant Trap-jaw Ant

One of the largest trap-jaw ant species, building arboreal carton nests in tropical forests. Its elongated mandibles are held open at 180 degrees and triggered by sensory hairs.

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Did You Know?

Unlike most trap-jaw ants that nest on the ground, this species builds paper-like nests high in the forest canopy.

Large-headed Resin Bee

A tiny black resin bee with a disproportionately large head that nests in beetle holes and hollow stems. It uses plant resin to construct partitions between brood cells.

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Did You Know?

Its oversized head allows it to perfectly plug the entrance of its narrow nest cavity like a living door.