Abstract
We studied the temporal activity pattern of the spider waspPepsis montezumaSmith (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) in a disturbed lower montane rainforest, which is located in the city of Manizales, Colombia, at an altitude of 2,150 m. Females of this species are diurnal with two peaks of activity: one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. During the morning, nectar foraging occurred atBaccharis latifolia. During the afternoon, females hunted for tarantulas of the genusPamphobeteus(Araneae: Theraphosidae), which were dragged backwards to the nest by the wasp. The nest was excavated before hunting. This is the first description of the behavior ofPepsis montezuma.
Highlights
IntroductionPompilids (spider wasps) are a distinct group of wasps that have an interesting natural history where single spiders are used as hosts
Pompilids are a distinct group of wasps that have an interesting natural history where single spiders are used as hosts
Feeding occurs during a few hours in the morning and midday, which are separated by approximately two hours of inactivity. This is the first record for Pompilidae feeding on B. latifolia
Summary
Pompilids (spider wasps) are a distinct group of wasps that have an interesting natural history where single spiders are used as hosts. Spider wasps have energetic search behaviors, and distinct morphology, with notably robust bodies and long spiny legs. Short flight durations with rapid movement of their wings and antennae are distinctive features of this group [1]. Females use spiders as hosts to feed their larvae. They lay a single egg on each subdued spider [2]. The female wasp transports the spider to the nest by dragging it backwards, forward, or even flying with it. The nest can be prepared before or after hunting, and a few spider wasps use the spider’s nest as their own [3]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
