Priocnemis monachus

Priocnemis monachus
Scientific classification
Kingdom:Animalia
Clade:Euarthropoda
Class:Insecta
Order:Hymenoptera
Family:Pompilidae
Genus:Priocnemis
Species: P. monachus
Binomial name
Priocnemis monachus
(Smith 1855)

Priocnemis monachus is a large spider wasp from New Zealand where it is known as the "black hunting wasp".

Description

P. monachus is a large and shiny black wasp with metallic black wings.

Prey

The black hunting wasp has been recorded capturing large spiders such as native tunnelweb spider Porrhothele antipodiana. These are dragged back to the wasp's nest and an egg is laid on each spider to feed the wasp larvae.[1] Trapdoor spiders are also recorded as prey.[2] P. monachus prefers spiders which make lidless burrows in the soil.[3]

Status and range

P. monachus is endemic to New Zealand and is relatively common in areas where there are ground spiders and well drained earth for its burrows.

References

  1. ↑ "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2012-08-06. Retrieved 2012-04-09.
  2. ↑ http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/wasps-and-bees/3
  3. ↑ T.E.R:R.A.I.N - Taranaki Educational Resource: Research, Analysis and Information Network


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