ivoorwesp
CR

ivoorwesp

Lestica alata

Unknown

Photo: Photo: (c) Stefan, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Stefan

Overview

The ivoorwesp (Lestica alata) is a distinctive ivory-colored wasp species characterized by its elongated wings and robust build. This specialized predatory wasp plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by controlling populations of specific arthropod prey and contributing to pollination services through its nectar-feeding behavior.

The ivoorwesp (Lestica alata) faces severe population declines due to widespread habitat destruction and fragmentation of its specialized nesting sites. Agricultural expansion and urban development have eliminated much of its preferred habitat, while climate change is altering the availability of its specific prey species and nesting conditions.

Threat summary

Habitat

Inhabits sandy heathlands, coastal dunes, and open woodland edges with sparse vegetation where it can excavate ground nests. Requires areas with abundant populations of specific beetle larvae that serve as prey for provisioning its underground brood chambers.

Other threatened species in Crabronidae

gewone vlinderdoderCR

gewone vlinderdoder

Lestica subterranea

Unknown
CR

hietakahvahukka

Miscophus spurius

Unknown
Sand Digger WaspCR

Sand Digger Wasp

Mellinus crabroneus

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is ivoorwesp classified as Critically Endangered?
ivoorwesp is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. The ivoorwesp (Lestica alata) faces severe population declines due to widespread habitat destruction and fragmentation of its specialized nesting sites. Agricultural expansion and urban development have eliminated much of its preferred habitat, while climate change is altering the availability of its specific prey species and nesting conditions.
Where does ivoorwesp live?
ivoorwesp occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to ivoorwesp?
The main threats to ivoorwesp are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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