Pseudosphegesthes
Mediterranean Pseudosphegesthes
CerambycinaeClytini ⚘ Pollinator
W. Palearctic spp.
4
European spp.
4
Body length
8–16 mm
Activity
Diurnal
Flight season
Summer–Autumn
Overwinters as
larva
Larva type
MRTVE_TV
Biotope
forest-saproxylic
Overview
Pseudosphegesthes
*Pseudosphegesthes* Reitter, 1913 is a small, monotypic West Palaearctic genus whose single species commands attention through its striking wasp-like habitus — a case of apparent mimicry that has long intrigued collectors. Adults, ranging from 8 to 16 mm, are found on sunlit dead wood and flowers from May to August across Turkey and the Caucasus. Larvae develop subcortically and into the sapwood of dead or dying Rosaceae, particularly hawthorn and cherry. The genus is easily attracted to fresh dead wood and UV light.
Seasonal activity
Flight season: Summer–Autumn
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Green = active months · Orange = peak
Host plants
Primary hosts: wood
CrataegusPrunus
⚑ Conservation note: none
External resources
Field tip: Wasp mimic! On sun-exposed wood and flowers. Hosts: Crataegus. Monotypic genus — rare.