Macromeris violaceus Spider Hunting Wasp JAVA

Description

Taxonomy Identification: Family Hymenoptera, unidentified species possibly in the hemipepsis or spider wasp pompolidae family

Colour: Overall colour is black with blackish wings which shine a purple petrol colour under the correct light.

Size: Body length 29-35mm, Wingspan 40-55mm

Comments & Applications:  Impressive parasitic spider wasps. Various colours and sizes. These parasitoid wasps use their sting to paralyse their prey before dragging it to a brood nest as living food; a single egg is laid on the prey, hatching to a larva that eats the still-living prey.  Seldom offered for sale. This weird but beautiful wasp is a nice addition to any entomological reference collection. Also useful for educational purposes, fine art, and macro photography.

Format: Supplied Papered/unmounted requires relaxing and setting, wings spread

More Information: External link