Jewel Wasp Pteromalid vs Pavement Ant

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Jewel Wasp Pteromalid Pavement Ant
Scientific Name Nasonia vitripennis Tetramorium caespitum
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Pteromalidae Formicidae
Size 1-2.5 mm 2.5-4 mm
Habitat Farmland Woodlands
Diet Parasitoids Seed Feeders
Regions Worldwide Europe, North America
Conservation Not Evaluated Not Evaluated

Jewel Wasp Pteromalid

A tiny jewel wasp that parasitizes the pupae of blowflies, flesh flies, and house flies. It is one of the most important model organisms in parasitoid biology and genetics.

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Did You Know?

It has become a genetic model organism rivaling Drosophila, with its entire genome sequenced to study parasitism evolution.

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.

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Did You Know?

Rival colonies wage mass battles on sidewalks involving thousands of workers grappling in one-on-one combat.