The wasp mantidfly (Climaciella brunnea) is neither a wasp nor a mantid - the wasp-like pigmentation is mimicry to fool predators, and the mantis-like forearms are an excellent example of convergent evolution, where similar solutions to a problem evolve in unrelated species.
Voracious hunters of insects, they are more than willing to tussle with fire ants for a quick snack. They grab their prey very much like a praying mantis does - using those uncanny forearms. They then fly off to devour it in peace. Expect to see them lurking among the flora waiting for your colony to stray too close!
Voracious hunters of insects, they are more than willing to tussle with fire ants for a quick snack. They grab their prey very much like a praying mantis does - using those uncanny forearms. They then fly off to devour it in peace. Expect to see them lurking among the flora waiting for your colony to stray too close!