The spider-hunting wasps of Ireland (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae). A review of the species, their natural history and recorded distribution

Abstract:The ecology and conservation status of some Irish aculeate Hymenoptera species, such as bees, are well known but comparatively little information is available regarding the natural history of solitary wasps, which account for a large proportion of the Irish aculeate fauna. Spider wasps (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) are a globally diverse family of solitary wasps that prey exclusively upon spiders. Most species provision nests with a paralysed spider, which serves as the sole food source for developing larvae. Adults are mostly nectar-feeders and many species may contribute to pollination. Here we present the first complete catalogue of the spider wasps of Ireland, the recorded distribution and temporal activity of each species, and short accounts of other aspects of the ecology of Irish Pompilidae. Irish spider wasp records were collated from voucher specimens held by the National Museum of Ireland, published literature sources and records provided by the National Biodiversity Data Centre (ROI), CEDaR and the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Atlas (NI) to produce maps of the known distribution of each species. Ireland is home to thirteen confirmed Pompilidae species that may be considered native, and an additional species for which the Irish status remains unconfirmed until further specimens can be collected. Brief accounts of the ecology and behaviour of each Irish species are provided.