Lunar Ichneumon Wasp vs Neon Cuckoo Bee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lunar Ichneumon Wasp | Neon Cuckoo Bee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Megarhyssa lunator | Thyreus nitidulus |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Ichneumonidae | Apidae |
| Size | 30-50 mm body, ovipositor up to 130 mm | 10-14 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Woodlands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Pollen Feeders |
| Regions | Eastern North America | Australia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Not Evaluated |
Lunar Ichneumon Wasp
A striking ichneumon with a yellow and brown banded body. It parasitizes pigeon tremex horntail larvae inside hardwood trees.
Did You Know?
Its ovipositor is the longest relative to body size of any insect in North America.
Neon Cuckoo Bee
A stunning blue-spotted cleptoparasite that lays eggs in the nests of blue-banded bees. The cuckoo larva hatches first and consumes the host's pollen provisions.
Did You Know?
Their brilliant blue spots are formed by dense patches of iridescent hairs that mimic the coloring of their host bees.