Sphecid wasp - Nysson plagiatus

Nomenclature

Tom: The subfamily Nyssoninae is now considered a synonym of Bembicinae and should no longer be used. The tribe Nyssonini (one level below subfamily) is still in existence and includes Nysson and related genera (all cleptoparasites of other digger wasps). The tribe Bembicini includes Bembix and its relatives; other tribes of the Bembicinae are Gorytini, Alyssonini, Stizini, etc.

… Matthias Buck, 20 October, 2006 - 6:01pm

Any thoughts on Synnevrus vs. Nysson

? (see below)

… John S. Ascher, 4 July, 2011 - 9:36pm

Synnevrus plagiatus

This is a male of Synnevrus plagiatus. The genus is related to Nysson but differs from it (among other things) by the thickened hind margin of the terga (look at the picture with spread wings: best visible on tergite 2 laterally). An excellent find. Most specimens I have seen were on flowers of Daucus carota (Queen Anne's Lace).

… Matthias Buck, 19 August, 2005 - 11:42am

Do you agree with placement in genus Nysson?

e.g., here:
http://research.calacademy.org/research/entomology/Entomology_Resources/Hymenoptera/sphecidae/Genera_and_species_PDF/Nysson.pdf

… John S. Ascher, 23 July, 2009 - 4:57pm

Taxonomy question

Matthias, I would like your professional opinion on the taxonomy of Synnevrus plagiatus. Should it be under Nyssoninae, or Bembicinae? I was questioned about placing it under Bembicinae, and I'm not sure, and would like to get it right for the guide. Thanks for any help you can give.

… tom murray, 4 September, 2005 - 11:05pm

Nysson?

This is one of the sphecid wasps that is a parasite on other sphecids. It is in the genus Nysson or a related genus. Look for these more commonly around aphid colonies where they come looking for honeydew. A good find!

… Eric R. Eaton, 15 August, 2005 - 3:27pm