Poecilopompilus algidus
This record describes Poecilopompilus algidus (species). Recorded family: Pompilidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This wasp is in the subfamily Pompilinae, tribe Pompilini and therefore possesses the following characters: They are separated from other Pompiline genera by the following: They are separated from the similar P. interruptus ) by the following characters:
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera (Ants, Bees, Wasps and Sawflies)
- Superfamily
- Pompiloidea
- Family
- Pompilidae (Spider Wasps)
- Subfamily
- Pompilinae
- Tribe
- Pompilini
- Genus
- Poecilopompilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Psammophilous (sand-loving). The females have well-developed tarsal combs and are fossorial and therefore prefer sandy areas (although they may be found in areas of abundant vegetation).
Geographic Range
Widespread. P. a. marcidus and P. a. coquilletti are restricted to the west. The nominate subspecies is widespread.
Seasonal Activity
Likely a univoltine mid-summer to late autumn species (pers. obs.)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Adults frequently visit flowers. Females provision nest burrows with Araneid spiders.
Life History
Univoltine (except possibly in the very southern parts of its range).
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Poecilopompilus algidus. 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 Poecilopompilus algidus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Nick Fensler; Additional contributions by cotinis , PaleoJon
Frequently Asked Questions About Poecilopompilus algidus
What is Poecilopompilus algidus?
Poecilopompilus algidus is a species in the family Pompilidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
How big is Poecilopompilus algidus?
13-28 mm (females>males, some overlap).
How do you identify Poecilopompilus algidus?
This wasp is in the subfamily Pompilinae, tribe Pompilini and therefore possesses the following characters: They are separated from other Pompiline genera by the following: They are separated from the similar P. interruptus ) by the following characters:
Where is Poecilopompilus algidus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Psammophilous (sand-loving). The females have well-developed tarsal combs and are fossorial and therefore prefer sandy areas (although they may be found in areas of abundant vegetation). |
| Range | Widespread. P. a. marcidus and P. a. coquilletti are restricted to the west. The nominate subspecies is widespread. |
What does Poecilopompilus algidus eat?
The diet of the Poecilopompilus algidus includes Adults frequently visit flowers. Females provision nest burrows with Araneid spiders..
When is Poecilopompilus algidus active?
Poecilopompilus algidus: seasonal activity - Likely a univoltine mid-summer to late autumn species (pers. obs.).
What is the life cycle of a Poecilopompilus algidus?
Univoltine (except possibly in the very southern parts of its range).