Callajoppa cirrogaster
This record describes Callajoppa cirrogaster (species). Recorded family: Ichneumonidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Callajoppa cirrogaster is very similar to Callajoppa exaltatoria. They are two of the largest Ichneumonidae in Britain but can be hard to tell apart. Both are similar in coloration and have pale markings at the base of the antennae as well as yellow colouration around the eyes and at the base of the abdomen. The wings of both species are distinctly yellow, which gradually darkens to brown at the edges. (see link below for further detail). Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Mainly in woodland and parks where large hawk-moths are found. Status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records. https://www.nhm.ac.uk/content/dam/nhmwww/take-part/identify-nature/british-ichneumonid-wasps-id-guide.pdf No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Ichneumonidae
- Genus
- Callajoppa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Mainly in woodland and parks where large hawk-moths are found.
Seasonal Activity
July to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
A parasitoid of hawk-moths.
Additional species information
Recorded status
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 Callajoppa cirrogaster. 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 Callajoppa cirrogaster (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Callajoppa cirrogaster
What is Callajoppa cirrogaster?
Callajoppa cirrogaster is a species in the family Ichneumonidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
Where is Callajoppa cirrogaster found?
Habitat: Mainly in woodland and parks where large hawk-moths are found.
When is Callajoppa cirrogaster active?
Callajoppa cirrogaster: seasonal activity - July to September..
What is the life cycle of a Callajoppa cirrogaster?
A parasitoid of hawk-moths.