The Cocoon of the Developing Emerald Jewel Wasp (Ampulex compressa) Resists Cannibalistic Predation of the Zombified Host.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

To reproduce, the parasitoid emerald jewel wasp (Ampulex compressa) envenomates an American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) and barricades it in a hole with an egg on the host's leg. The larval wasp feeds externally before entering the host and consuming internal organs before forming a cocoon inside the host carcass.

Methods

The vulnerability of jewel wasp larvae to predation by juvenile cockroaches was investigated, and data were recorded with time-lapse videography.

Results

Cockroaches were found to be predators of parasitized hosts. When parasitized cockroaches were exposed to hungry cockroaches on days 0-8 of development, the developing larva was killed. Eggs were dislodged or consumed, larvae on the leg were eaten, and larvae inside the host were

SUBMITTER: Catania KC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11878412 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature