Isodontia sp. (genus)

2 Unidentified Grass-carrying wasp at Googong, NSW

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Identification history

Isodontia sp. (genus)	16 Dec 2017	KimPullen
Isodontia sp. (genus)	15 Dec 2017	michaelb
Sphex sp. (genus)	13 Dec 2017	KimPullen
Unidentified	13 Dec 2017	Wandiyali

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User's notes

These wasps were collecting grass flower/seed heads (Bothriochloa macra) to fill holes in an old burnt tree trunk. Box Gum Grassy Woodland

9 comments

KimPullen wrote:

14 Dec 2017

These are interesting images. The only explanation I can think of to explain why a wasp would stuff a hole in a tree trunk with grass, is that it has a nest there and the grass is a barrier to intruders.

Wandiyali wrote:

14 Dec 2017

thanks Kim, they have also been identified as Isodontia sp (Grass-carrying Wasps) by Dr Manu Saunders from New England Uni, with a similar comment that the grass is possibly a deterrent to predators.
Carolyn

michaelb wrote:

15 Dec 2017

There is a reference for Isodontia sp. (genus) at:
https://bugguide.net/node/view/5691

RogerF wrote:

15 Dec 2017

I have drilled holes in wood blocks for artificial bee/wasp nesting. Many are occupied by sphecids that stuff dry grass stems in the hole entrances, presumably to deter cuckoo wasps that are always inspecting the hole entrances. Also have photos. Good to have a name. Roger

Wandiyali wrote:

15 Dec 2017

There were cuckoo wasps here too.

Wandiyali wrote:

15 Dec 2017

and thanks Michael, good reference (it seems there is not much known about the Australian species).

RogerF wrote:

15 Dec 2017

6 Species of Isodontia are listed in CSIRO Insects of Australia Vol II, as is the habit of stuffing the nest hole with grass stems. Isn't nature remarkeable. Roger.

KimPullen wrote:

17 Dec 2017

Thanks everyone, this is a new genus for me.

gregbaines wrote:

23 Dec 2017

Thank you everyone. There is so much to learn!

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