About Steelblue Ichneumon
A metallic blue-black ichneumon wasp native to Australia. It is an important parasitoid of pest caterpillars including the introduced cabbage moth.
Did You Know?
It was deliberately introduced to New Zealand to help control pest moth populations in agriculture.
How to Identify Steelblue Ichneumon
Steelblue Ichneumon (Lissopimpla excelsa) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Ichneumonidae. Adults typically measure 12-18 mm.
Steelblue Ichneumon Habitat
Steelblue Ichneumon is found in orchards habitats, particularly across Australia, New Zealand. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Steelblue Ichneumon Diet and Feeding
Steelblue Ichneumon is a parasitoid whose larvae develop inside or on a host insect, eventually killing it. Parasitoids are important biological control agents in agriculture and natural ecosystems.
Where Is Steelblue Ichneumon Found?
Steelblue Ichneumon can be found in Australia, New Zealand, where it inhabits orchards environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Steelblue Ichneumon can be found
Is Steelblue Ichneumon Dangerous?
Steelblue Ichneumon belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Steelblue Ichneumon Role in Nature
Steelblue Ichneumon is an important biological control agent. As a parasitoid, its larvae develop inside host insects, naturally regulating pest populations. This makes it valuable in integrated pest management strategies.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Steelblue Ichneumon
What does Steelblue Ichneumon look like?
The Steelblue Ichneumon typically measures 12-18 mm.
Where is Steelblue Ichneumon found?
The Steelblue Ichneumon is found in Australia, New Zealand and typically inhabits orchards environments.
What does Steelblue Ichneumon eat?
The Steelblue Ichneumon is a parasitoid whose larvae develop inside a host, eventually killing it.
Is Steelblue Ichneumon dangerous to humans?
The Steelblue Ichneumon belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
What is an interesting fact about Steelblue Ichneumon?
It was deliberately introduced to New Zealand to help control pest moth populations in agriculture.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Steelblue Ichneumon (Lissopimpla excelsa). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/steelblue-ichneumon
MLA:
"Steelblue Ichneumon." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/steelblue-ichneumon.