Asthenolabus vitratorius
This record describes Asthenolabus vitratorius (species). Recorded family: Ichneumonidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A red and black nocturnal wasp with long antennae typical of members of the Platylabini tribe. The red abdomen darkens towards the tip and finishes with white tailstripes which may also be helpful in determining species. Several other members of the Platylabini tribe. Some Ophion species may also be surperficially similar. Detailed examination is necessay and detailed photographs should be provided. We suggest you seek expert confirmation of the species before submitting your record https://www.facebook.com/groups/294594217827696 Truse status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Ichneumonidae
- Genus
- Asthenolabus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Sometimes attracted to light traps
Seasonal Activity
Summer and early autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Truse status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Asthenolabus vitratorius. 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 Asthenolabus vitratorius (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Asthenolabus vitratorius
What is Asthenolabus vitratorius?
Asthenolabus vitratorius is a species in the family Ichneumonidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
Where is Asthenolabus vitratorius found?
Habitat: Sometimes attracted to light traps
When is Asthenolabus vitratorius active?
Asthenolabus vitratorius: seasonal activity - Summer and early autumn..