Tundra Ichneumon Wasp vs Icelandic Water Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tundra Ichneumon Wasp | Icelandic Water Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ichneumon gracilicornis | Agabus bipustulatus |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Ichneumonidae | Dytiscidae |
| Size | 10-16 mm | 9-12 mm |
| Habitat | Tundra & Arctic | Tundra & Arctic |
| Diet | Parasitoids | Predators |
| Regions | Scandinavia, Finland, northern Russia, subarctic Canada | Iceland, Scandinavia, northern Russia, subarctic Europe, Arctic Canada |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Tundra Ichneumon Wasp
A medium-sized ichneumon wasp with a black body and conspicuous yellow-banded abdomen. It has a long, slender ovipositor for parasitizing moth pupae. Adults are active during the Arctic summer's long daylight hours.
Did You Know?
Ichneumon wasps in the Arctic play a crucial role in controlling outbreaks of defoliating moths in birch forests.
Icelandic Water Beetle
A medium-sized, oval, dark brown diving beetle found in cold ponds and lakes. It carries a silvery air bubble under its elytra for breathing underwater. Adults are strong fliers and can colonize isolated Arctic ponds.
Did You Know?
This beetle is one of the most widespread diving beetles in the Arctic and can fly long distances to colonize new ponds created by permafrost thaw.