Large-legged Chalcid vs Australian Large-headed Bee

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Large-legged Chalcid Australian Large-headed Bee
Scientific Name Chalcis myrifex Stenotritus greavesi
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Chalcididae Stenotritidae
Size 4-7 mm 12-16 mm
Habitat Heathland Heathland
Diet Parasitoids Nectar Feeders
Regions North America Australia
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Large-legged Chalcid

A parasitoid wasp with conspicuously thickened hind femora used to brace itself while ovipositing. It attacks the pupae of tachinid flies and various Lepidoptera.

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Did You Know?

Despite looking like it could jump powerfully, those thick hind legs are mainly used for gripping, not leaping.

Australian Large-headed Bee

A robust, fast-flying bee endemic to Australia with a disproportionately large head and powerful mandibles. It belongs to the most primitive extant family of bees.

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Did You Know?

Stenotritidae is the smallest bee family in the world, containing only 21 species all restricted to Australia.