Peruvian Parasitoid Wasp vs Lesser Citronella Ant

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Peruvian Parasitoid Wasp Lesser Citronella Ant
Scientific Name Capitojoppa amazonica Lasius claviger
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Ichneumonidae Formicidae
Size 8-12 mm 3-4 mm
Habitat Forests Orchards
Diet Parasitoids Root Feeders
Regions South America Eastern North America
Conservation Data Deficient Least Concern

Peruvian Parasitoid Wasp

Described in 2023 as a new genus from the hyperdiverse Allpahuayo-Mishana National Reserve in Peru. Part of a wave of new ichneumonid discoveries in Amazonian canopy.

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Did You Know?

This wasp was so distinct from all known species that scientists had to create an entirely new genus to classify it — highlighting how much tropical insect diversity remains unknown.

Lesser Citronella Ant

A small yellow subterranean ant closely related to the larger citronella ant. It produces a citrus scent and lives in deep soil nests tending root aphids.

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Did You Know?

Citronella ants are obligate herders whose survival depends entirely on their symbiotic relationship with underground aphids.