Specimen collected in Malaise trap (GMP 66365) during week 19 Sept to 26 Sept 2026.

Specimen collected in Malaise trap (GMP 66365) during week 19th to 26th September 2026.

Specimens collected in Malaise traps during September and October 2026: #044 GMP365 (19-26 Sept); #051 GMP66417 (19-26 Sept); #065 GMP66421 (17-24 Oct)

Specimen collected in Malaise trap (GMP 66364) during week 12th to 19th September 2026.

Specimen collected in Malaise trap (GMP 66367) during week 3 Oct to 10 Oct 2026.

Collected at the beginning of the 2026 nesting season, from the site where we have previously monitored this species. I collected this one to send to CBG for barcoding and therefore inclusion on BOLD.

A fully illustrated, step-wise comparison of our local Sphodrotes species with the description of S. punctuosa by Lomholdt (1983). These two specimens (#2512C & #2512D) are destined for DNA barcoding, justifying a careful examination of species identification.

These fast-moving wasps were observed by Lachlan Copeland in northern NSW during April, 2026. In May, with wasp activity dwindling, Lachlan succeeded in catching one for me to take a closer look.

Although bees are not my main focus, I have taken the opportunity to take a closer look at some of those turning up in the Malaise traps this year (as part of our participation in the International Barcode of Life project).

The Malaise trap survey we began 4 months ago is uncovering the diversity of our smallest wasps … including Rhopalum. They vary in colour, size, and most notably, in the shape of the gaster.

With a small specimen in hand, I take a close look at the key features of this genus. It is a very close match with N. australiensis … but equally, it may be one of several undescribed, all black species of Australian Nitela.
(specimen #2603A)

A single, small specimen illustrates many of the features of this genus.