Apechthis rufata
This record describes Apechthis rufata (species). Recorded family: Ichneumonidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length up to 15 mm. Quite a striking ichneumon, although there are similar species and expert help is needed with identification. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Flower rich meadows, hedgerows and woodland edge. Parasitic on the larvae of several moth species. Apparently widespread, but infrequently recorded, so true status is difficult to determine. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Ichneumonidae
- Genus
- Apechthis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Flower rich meadows, hedgerows and woodland edge.
Seasonal Activity
May to November.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Parasitic on the larvae of several moth species.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Apparently widespread, but infrequently recorded, so true status is difficult to determine.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Apechthis rufata. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hymenoptera includes over 150,000 described species of ants, bees, wasps, and sawflies. Earth harbors approximately 20 quadrillion (20×10^15) ants, with a combined biomass of ~12 megatons of dry carbon - exceeding the combined biomass of all wild birds and mammals (PNAS, 2022).
Ecological role of the group
About 35% of the world's food crops depend on animal pollinators. The chocolate industry, valued at over $100 billion, depends on pollinating flies and midges. Ants are the dominant soil engineers in most terrestrial ecosystems, turning more soil than earthworms in many habitats.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Pollinators contribute $235-577 billion worth of annual global food production (FAO). In the U.S., bee pollination alone benefits crops valued at $18 billion annually, and honey bees are responsible for $5.4 billion in agricultural productivity. Between April 2023-2024, 55.1% of managed honey bee colonies were lost. The U.S. bee population dropped from 5 million to 2.5 million.
Recorded sources for this group: FAO, USDA, EPA, PNAS (2022), US Fish & Wildlife Service. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Apechthis rufata (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Apechthis rufata
What is Apechthis rufata?
Apechthis rufata is a species in the family Ichneumonidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
How big is Apechthis rufata?
up to 15 mm. Quite a striking ichneumon, although there are similar species and expert help is needed with identification.
Where is Apechthis rufata found?
Habitat: Flower rich meadows, hedgerows and woodland edge.
When is Apechthis rufata active?
Apechthis rufata: seasonal activity - May to November..
What is the life cycle of a Apechthis rufata?
Parasitic on the larvae of several moth species.