Carrion Parasitoid Wasp vs Spurge Hawkmoth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Carrion Parasitoid Wasp Spurge Hawkmoth
Scientific Name Alysia manducator Hyles euphorbiae
Order Hymenoptera Lepidoptera
Family Braconidae Sphingidae
Size 4-6 mm 60-80 mm wingspan
Habitat Farmland Farmland
Diet Carrion Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, North America Europe, Central Asia
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.

Spurge Hawkmoth

A striking hawkmoth with olive and pink forewings and rosy-red hindwings with a black base. Its caterpillar is equally spectacular with red, black, yellow, and white markings.

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Did You Know?

It has been introduced to North America as a biological control agent for invasive leafy spurge.