Names and Taxonomy
- Common Names: Sand Wasp
- Synonyms:
- Order: Hymenoptera (Wasps, Bees and Ants)
- Family: Bembicidae (Apoid Wasps)
- Genus Information: 1 species in NV, 3 in CA, 5 in US
Steniolia longirostra
Sand Wasp
Introduction:
Steniolia wasps are solitary ground nesters, meaning they dig individual burrows in sandy areas to raise their young. They are often found near areas with loose, sandy soil. It constructs burrows for its young, and provisions them with paralyzed prey. Females work constantly, during the active part of the day they are either digging new burrows, checking old burrows, hunting prey or bringing prey to burrows. They fly in short bursts with much hovering and zipping about in short flights. Their buzzing sound constantly varies as they zip about in short flights. It has a yellow and black color pattern. The genus Steniolia is within the larger family Bembicidae and contains about 15 described species.
Life Cycle:
Size 1/2 inch (1-1.5 cm)
Sexual Dimorphism: Both genders have massive mandibles and a long proboscis. Females have yellow-green eyes and a striking facial pattern that resembles the T-spot of an Aeshna darner; males facial appearance is different, with darker eyes.
Metamorphosis: complete (egg, larva, pupa, adult)
