Carrion Parasitoid Wasp vs South American Velvet Ant

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Carrion Parasitoid Wasp South American Velvet Ant
Scientific Name Alysia manducator Traumatomutilla indica
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Braconidae Mutillidae
Size 4-6 mm 15-22 mm
Habitat Farmland Grasslands
Diet Carrion Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, North America South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

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Did You Know?

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

South American Velvet Ant

A large tropical velvet ant with striking black and orange patterns. Despite its species name, it is native to South America and not India.

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Did You Know?

Its species name 'indica' was assigned in error and does not reflect its true South American distribution.