European beewolf

Philanthus triangulum-(dkrb)

Beewolf with honey bee

European Beewolf (Philanthus triangulum) is a species of solitary wasp that is found across Europe and parts of Asia and North Africa. This insect is known for its unique hunting behavior and its complex relationship with a specific type of bacteria, which has garnered interest in the fields of entomology, microbiology, and ecology.

Description

The European Beewolf is a relatively large wasp, with females typically larger than males. They have distinctive yellow and black markings on their bodies, which serve as a warning to potential predators about their ability to defend themselves with a painful sting. The adult beewolves primarily feed on nectar, while they hunt bees, particularly honeybees, to feed their larvae.

Habitat

European Beewolves are found in sandy areas, such as dunes and heathlands, where they can dig their nesting burrows. These habitats provide the loose, well-drained soil that is ideal for their underground nests.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the European Beewolf includes several stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. After mating, the female digs a burrow and creates several cells off the main tunnel. She then hunts for bees, paralyzing them with her sting and transporting them back to the burrow. Each cell is stocked with a few bees upon which a single egg is laid. The hatching larva feeds on the provided bees, pupates in the cell, and emerges as an adult the following summer.

Symbiotic Relationship

One of the most fascinating aspects of the European Beewolf is its symbiotic relationship with the bacteria Streptomyces philanthi. The bacteria are stored in specialized glands in the female's antennae and are applied to the walls of the brood cells. They produce antibiotics that protect the larva and its food supply from fungal and bacterial infections. This relationship is a remarkable example of symbiosis in the natural world.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of the European Beewolf varies by region, but in general, they are not currently considered to be at risk. However, their reliance on specific habitats and prey makes them vulnerable to changes in land use and agricultural practices, such as the use of pesticides and habitat destruction.

In Culture

The European Beewolf has been a subject of interest not only to scientists but also to nature enthusiasts and photographers, due to its striking appearance and interesting behaviors.