Itoplectis maculator
This record describes Itoplectis maculator (species). Recorded family: Ichneumonidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5 to 10 mm. A largely black bodied insect with striking red thighs on its rear legs. There are other very similar species in this genus which means that detailed examination of an actual specimen is generally needed to identify the exact species. A red box around the image indicates that we think it is likely to be this species but can't be 100% certain. A parasite of various butterfly and moth pupae. Widespread but probably under recorded in England. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Ichneumonidae
- Genus
- Itoplectis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Hedgerows, parks and gardens.
Seasonal Activity
Peaking in summer and autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
A parasite of various butterfly and moth pupae.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but probably under recorded in England.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Itoplectis maculator. 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 Itoplectis maculator (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Itoplectis maculator
What is Itoplectis maculator?
Itoplectis maculator is a species in the family Ichneumonidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
How big is Itoplectis maculator?
5 to 10 mm. A largely black bodied insect with striking red thighs on its rear legs.
Where is Itoplectis maculator found?
Habitat: Hedgerows, parks and gardens.
When is Itoplectis maculator active?
Itoplectis maculator: seasonal activity - Peaking in summer and autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Itoplectis maculator?
A parasite of various butterfly and moth pupae.