Carrion Parasitoid Wasp vs Hawaiian Assimulans Yellow-faced Bee

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Carrion Parasitoid Wasp Hawaiian Assimulans Yellow-faced Bee
Scientific Name Alysia manducator Hylaeus assimulans
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Braconidae Colletidae
Size 4-6 mm 6-8 mm
Habitat Farmland Beaches & Coastal
Diet Carrion Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, North America Oceania (Hawaii)
Conservation Least Concern Endangered

Carrion Parasitoid Wasp

A small braconid wasp that parasitizes blowfly larvae in carrion. An important part of the decomposition ecosystem. Females locate buried fly larvae using chemical cues.

💡

Did You Know?

Females can detect fly larvae buried in carrion from a considerable distance using their sensitive antennae.

Hawaiian Assimulans Yellow-faced Bee

A rare endemic bee from the Hawaiian Islands, once found on several islands but now severely reduced in range. It nests in the stems of native plants and abandoned beetle holes. Habitat loss and invasive species have drastically reduced its populations.

💡

Did You Know?

This bee is one of seven Hawaiian yellow-faced bee species federally listed as endangered, highlighting the perilous state of Hawaiian native pollinators.