SODONTIA MEXICANA, A NEW INVASIVE WASP SPECIES IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA FAUNA
Alla GLADCAIA, Moldova State University
Abstract
A new invasive wasp species, Isodontia mexicana (Hymenoptera) was reared from artificial shelters in 2024 on
the territory of the Institute of Genetics, Physiology and Plant Protection, Republic of Moldova. We analyzed the
biology, the history of the species’ distribution in Europe and the possibility of its use in plant protection. I. mexicana
species came from Central America to Europe during the Second World War and did not change its ecological niche
in the invaded area. The presence of a relatively hairy mesosome and frequent visitation of many flowering plants by
I. mexicana, likely defines it as a powerful new pollinator. As the population of I. mexicana grows, a more likely effect may be that the wasp controls crop pests from the Orthoptera order. In this case, artificial refuges should be used
in a manner that maximizes the emergence of healthy adult offspring of I. mexicana in agricultural areas.
Keywords: Isodontia mexicana; The Republic of Moldova; Sphecidae, artificial shelters, invasive species, plant
protection, pest control, powerful pollinator.
