Elampus panzeri
This record describes Elampus panzeri (species). Recorded family: Chrysididae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance

One of many similar ruby tailed wasp species. Expert help should be sought for identification. Occurs in the habitats of its hosts which are open sandy areas. May be abundant around the nesting sites of its host. June to August but usually found during July. A brood parasite on species of Mimesa (Crabonidae). Devon to Kent and north to Westmorland and North Yorkshire. This species is not regarded as being scarce or threatened. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Chrysididae
- Genus
- Elampus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Occurs in the habitats of its hosts which are open sandy areas. May be abundant around the nesting sites of its host.
Seasonal Activity
June to August but usually found during July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
A brood parasite on species of Mimesa (Crabonidae).
Additional species information
Recorded status
Devon to Kent and north to Westmorland and North Yorkshire. This species is not regarded as being scarce or threatened.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Elampus panzeri. 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 Elampus panzeri (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Elampus panzeri
What is Elampus panzeri?
Elampus panzeri is a species in the family Chrysididae, within the order Hymenoptera.
Where is Elampus panzeri found?
Habitat: Occurs in the habitats of its hosts which are open sandy areas. May be abundant around the nesting sites of its host.
When is Elampus panzeri active?
Elampus panzeri: seasonal activity - June to August but usually found during July..
What is the life cycle of a Elampus panzeri?
A brood parasite on species of Mimesa (Crabonidae).
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